What Happened

U.S. Secret Service agents fatally shot an armed man who attempted to enter the secured grounds of Mar-a-Lago in the early hours of Sunday morning.

According to law enforcement officials, the suspect approached the north gate of the property at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time carrying a shotgun and a fuel canister. Agents issued verbal commands ordering him to drop the weapon.

Authorities say the individual set down the fuel can but raised the shotgun toward officers. At that point, Secret Service personnel, along with a Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputy, discharged their weapons, killing the suspect at the scene.

No Secret Service agents were injured during the incident.

President Trump’s Whereabouts

Officials confirmed that Donald Trump was not at Mar-a-Lago at the time of the shooting. The president was in Washington, D.C., attending official engagements.

The Secret Service stated that no protectees were present at the Florida residence during the breach attempt.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead in investigating the shooting, working alongside local authorities and the United States Secret Service.

Officials are reviewing surveillance footage and examining the suspect’s travel history and background to determine motive. Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether the individual made any specific threats prior to the incident.

As is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings, the agents’ use of force will undergo internal and independent review.

Broader Security Context

Mar-a-Lago serves as one of President Trump’s primary residences and has long been protected by layered security measures. The property has previously been the site of security concerns, reflecting the heightened risk environment surrounding high-profile political figures.

Security experts note that protective perimeters around presidential residences are designed to prevent precisely this type of breach, and the rapid response by agents likely prevented further escalation.

Sources: AP News, Yahoo