On Sunday, heightened security protocols at Palm Beach International Airport led President Donald Trump to board Air Force One via a smaller staircase, as noted by a White House official. The increased measures were implemented after a suspected hunting platform was discovered by the Secret Service near the airport, which was clearly visible when Trump was getting on and off the plane.
It was initially reported by FOX News that this possible sniper’s location had been found, though no arrests have been made yet. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the FBI is leading the investigation.
Patel mentioned that the hunting platform, which has not yet been linked to any particular individual, was identified by the U.S. Secret Service. “Just before the president’s arrival in West Palm Beach, the USSS spotted what looked like an elevated hunting platform within view of Air Force One’s landing area,” he elaborated, adding that there were no people present at the time. The FBI has taken control of the situation, sending agents and employing cell phone analysis to gather evidence.
Anthony Guglielmi, the communications director for the USSS, stated that they are coordinating closely with both the FBI and local law enforcement in Palm Beach County. He indicated that the hunting platform was uncovered during preparations for Trump’s arrival, emphasizing that it did not affect the president’s movements and that no individuals were involved in the situation.
While Guglielmi refrained from sharing specific details about the items or their purpose, he asserted that the event underscored the significance of their layered security protocols.
This investigation follows closely on the heels of the conviction of Ryan Routh for attempting to assassinate Trump from a sniper’s position established in the underbrush of a Palm Beach golf course.
