The U.S. Secret Service and FBI are investigating a suspicious hunting stand discovered near Palm Beach International Airport that has a direct line of sight to where President Donald Trump exits Air Force One. The discovery, made last Thursday, has prompted a security review amid concerns over potential threats.
The hunting stand was found in a tree within the airport’s vicinity, described by law enforcement as an odd collection of pipes, and it was located about 200 yards from the area where Air Force One is currently parked due to ongoing construction. No ammunition or explosives were found at the scene, and no individuals were present when it was discovered. The Secret Service identified the stand during routine advance security preparations using technology and physical sweeps. Authorities are uncertain whether it was intended for hunting, such as for invasive green iguanas common in the area, or had a more sinister purpose.
The FBI has taken the lead in the investigation, with Director Kash Patel confirming that resources were flown in to collect evidence and deploy cell phone analytics capabilities. The Secret Service is cooperating closely with the FBI and local law enforcement in Palm Beach County. Anthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesperson, stated that there was no impact to the president’s movements and emphasized that the investigation is precautionary. The stand was first reported by Fox News, and multiple outlets have since covered the story.
Air Force One does not typically park in this section of the airport, which is usually reserved for private aircraft, including Trump’s personal plane. However, recent construction has necessitated the use of this area for the presidential jet’s parking. This change in routine has raised security concerns, as the stand’s position offers a clear view of the exit point used by the president. The investigation aims to determine if the stand poses any threat and to identify who might have placed it there.
This incident comes against a backdrop of previous assassination attempts on President Trump. In July 2024, he was targeted in a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Thomas Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents. Later that year, in September, Ryan Routh was arrested for hiding in shrubbery at a West Palm Beach golf course in an alleged plot to kill Trump. Routh was recently found guilty and is awaiting sentencing. These events have heightened security measures around the president.
Despite the alarming discovery, officials have assured the public that there is no immediate threat, and the president’s schedule has proceeded without disruption. Trump was in West Palm Beach over the weekend, staying at his Mar-a-Lago resort. The investigation is ongoing, with forensic analysis and intelligence gathering to assess any potential risks. The Secret Service has a history of adapting security protocols in response to new threats, and this case is being treated with utmost seriousness.
The discovery underscores the persistent security challenges faced by the Secret Service in protecting the president, especially in locations he frequents, like Florida. It also highlights the collaboration between federal agencies in addressing potential threats. As the investigation continues, further details may emerge, and enhanced security measures are likely to be implemented to ensure safety.