In the wake of a shooting at Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trump addressed the incident publicly for the first time. During remarks on Monday at an Angel Families event at the White House, Trump reflected on the situation and referenced ongoing threats against him.
The incident occurred early Sunday when an armed intruder entered the grounds of Mar-a-Lago. According to officials, the suspect was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service agents after refusing to drop his weapon. Trump was not at the Florida property at the time. The president made comments about his safety and public profile during his speech. He also referenced past U.S. presidents who were assassinated while discussing what he described as being a “consequential” leader.
Details of the Mar-a-Lago Shooting Involving an Armed Intruder
The Mar-a-Lago shooting took place early Sunday morning at Trump’s private club in Palm Beach, Florida. Authorities identified the suspect as Austin Tucker Martin, 21, of Cameron, North Carolina.
According to law enforcement, Martin attempted to enter the property while carrying a firearm and a gas can. U.S. Secret Service agents confronted him on the grounds. Officials stated that agents instructed Martin to drop the weapon.
When he allegedly refused to comply, agents discharged their firearms. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Secret Service is responsible for protecting former and current presidents, as well as designated properties connected to them. Mar-a-Lago remains under federal security protection due to Trump’s status.
Trump was not present during the incident. On Saturday evening, he and First Lady Melania Trump were in Washington, D.C., where they hosted a dinner with governors at the White House.
Federal and local authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. As of now, officials have not publicly disclosed a motive. The FBI and Secret Service are working together on the case.
Donald Trump’s Public Remarks After the Mar-a-Lago Shooting
On Monday, Trump addressed the shooting during an Angel Families event at the White House. The event honored families who lost loved ones to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants.
While speaking, Trump referenced the incident and spoke about the threats he has faced.
He stated: “You read about all these crazy shooters, but they only go after consequential presidents,” he said. “They don’t go after non-consequential presidents.” He then cited two assassinated presidents in American history — Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy — saying: “They were consequential,” adding: “They only go after consequential. So maybe I want to be a little bit less consequential.” The audience responded with light laughter. Later in his remarks, Trump commented on his personal safety, stating: “Got a lot of people gunning for me, don’t I?”
Trump survived two assassination attempts in 2024. Federal authorities increased security measures following those incidents. However, officials have not indicated any direct connection between previous threats and the Mar-a-Lago shooting.
He also praised the Angel Families in attendance, describing them as the “bravest people” and stating that they gave him a warm feeling.