Messages about Epstein Files Sent to Colleague a Week Before Incident
Austin Tucker Martin, 21, who brought a shotgun onto the Mar-a-Lago property and was fatally shot by Secret Service agents and Florida police, had expressed an obsession with the Epstein files in messages sent to a colleague a week before the incident, according to TMZ.
Authorities stated that Martin had his shotgun in a ready-to-fire position on President Trump's estate, forcing security forces to open fire. His family reported him missing on Saturday after Martin left home. His mother, Melissa Martin, posted a missing person flyer, describing the silver Volkswagen Tiguan he might be using.
Called for Awareness Regarding Epstein Files
TMZ published the content of messages exchanged on February 15 between Martin and a workplace colleague. Martin wrote: "I don't know if you've read about the Epstein files, but evil is real and unmistakable."
He continued: "The best thing people like you and I can do is use what little influence we have. Tell others what you've heard regarding the Epstein files and what the government is doing. Raise awareness."
The colleague did not respond. On Sunday morning, before news of the death spread, the colleague messaged back: "Hey! Where are you?"
Attempted to Unionize at Golf Club
The messages were sent via a secure chat system. Martin worked at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club in North Carolina, about 15 miles from his hometown of Cameron. Colleagues told TMZ that Martin believed the government was concealing the Epstein files to allow the elite to continue to "get away with it."
They also stated that he frequently complained about the economy and the difficulties young people face in living independently. Martin had attempted to organize a union at the golf club to demand higher wages but did not receive support.
Family Says He Supported Trump and Didn't Know How to Use a Gun
Sources told TMZ that Martin supported President Trump. His 19-year-old cousin, Braeden Fields, told the Associated Press (AP) that most of the family supported Mr. Trump and that violent behavior was completely contrary to Martin's "quiet" personality.
He couldn't even harm an ant. He didn't even know how to use a gun.
Authorities have not yet released a motive. At the time of the incident, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were at the White House. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging South Florida residents to check security cameras for any relevant footage.
