WASHINGTON: In a chilling security breach, the U.S. Secret Service shot and killed an armed intruder who attempted to storm Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida early Sunday morning. The incident, occurring around 1:30 AM, marks the third major threat against the former President’s life in recent years.
According to official reports, the suspect—identified as a 20-year-old male from North Carolina—tried to force his vehicle through the estate’s north gate just as another vehicle was exiting. Secret Service agents intercepted the suspect and opened fire after he brandished a weapon.
Investigations revealed the suspect was carrying a shotgun and a fuel canister. While the motive is still under investigation, authorities confirmed the individual had been reported missing by his family in North Carolina days prior. It is believed he acquired the firearm during his journey to Florida.
Fortunately, a potential tragedy was averted as both Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump were at the White House at the time of the breach. This incident follows two previous high-profile attempts: the July 2024 shooting at a Pennsylvania rally and the September 2024 arrest of an armed man near Trump’s golf course.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Secret Service have launched a joint investigation into the security lapse and the suspect’s background.
