Key Takeaways

• U.S. agents found an elevated hunting stand near Palm Beach airport before the president’s arrival.
• The Secret Service first spotted the hunting stand and then called in the FBI.
• The FBI is using phone data and on-site evidence to learn who built the hunting stand.
• No one was at the hunting stand when agents arrived, and no threats emerged.
• Authorities work together to keep the president safe at Mar-a-Lago.

Hunting stand

A roadside hunting stand near President Trump’s arrival spot in Florida sparked a joint probe. Agents worry the hunting stand could allow someone a direct view of Air Force One’s landing zone. Therefore, the FBI now leads the investigation after the Secret Service discovered it first.

Hunting stand found near Air Force One

Secret Service agents discovered the unexpected platform last Thursday. They saw this elevated hunting stand just yards from where the president walks off Air Force One. At first, they did not find anyone around it. Yet they knew it posed a potential risk. As a result, they alerted the FBI, handing the case to federal agents.

How the hunting stand was discovered

• The Secret Service guards patrol the Air Force One landing area daily.
• They noticed the stand’s platform and set of steps in plain sight.
• They reported it almost immediately before the president’s flight arrived.
• After a quick review, they confirmed no one sat in the hunting stand at the time.
• Then they called the FBI to join the probe and gather more clues.

FBI steps up investigation

Once the FBI took the lead, they flew in special teams to process the scene. They brought tools to collect fingerprints and other evidence from the hunting stand. Moreover, they deployed phone tracking experts who use cell data to trace people seen near the site. In addition, they will check security footage from nearby homes and businesses.

Secret Service cooperation

Secret Service spokespeople say they work closely with local law officers and the FBI. They share every piece of new information that could identify who built or used the hunting stand. Meanwhile, local sheriff’s deputies patrol the area around Mar-a-Lago to boost security. Finally, federal, state, and local teams coordinate to protect the president.

Why the hunting stand raised alarms

First, the hunting stand sat within direct line of sight to where the president disembarks. Next, it had clear, elevated views of the landing zone and walking path. Therefore, it created a vantage point for anyone with ill intent. Although nothing harmful happened, safety teams take all such discoveries very seriously.

Timeline of events

• Several months ago: Someone sets up the hunting stand near the airport.
• Last Thursday: Secret Service finds the stand before the president’s arrival.
• Hours later: FBI gets notified and flies in agents.
• Weekend: Teams gather evidence, review phone data, and interview locals.
• Now: Authorities hunt for clues to who built or used the hunting stand.

Local reaction and concerns

Neighbors feel uneasy after hearing about the hunting stand so close to a high-profile site. Some worry about privacy and safety near their homes. Others applaud agents for finding it before any danger unfolded. According to a community leader, “It’s terrifying to think someone watched that spot for months.”

Potential charges and outcomes

At this stage, authorities have not named any suspects. If they find the person who built the hunting stand, that person could face federal charges for endangering a protected area. It depends on whether investigators prove the structure served any harmful purpose. In any case, agents will share findings with the Justice Department to decide next steps.

Protecting the president at Mar-a-Lago

Security teams follow strict rules to guard any site the president visits. Before each trip, they sweep the entire area for hidden objects or weapons. They also use cameras, drones, and patrols to monitor all angles. Thus, even a simple hunting stand alerts agents to tighten security checks.

Looking ahead in the investigation

Authorities plan to keep the site preserved until they finish collecting all evidence. They will also interview property owners near the airport to learn who saw the stand go up. As more details emerge, officials may hold a news briefing. Meanwhile, the president’s security remains at the highest level.

FAQs

What exactly is a hunting stand?

A hunting stand is a raised platform used by hunters to spot game. It often sits on a metal or wooden frame and offers a clear view of the surroundings.

Why did the hunting stand alarm agents?

Because it faced directly toward the Air Force One landing area. Such a view could let someone watch the president’s movements.

Did anyone use the hunting stand?

No one was at the stand when agents arrived. Investigators do not yet know if anyone ever sat in it.

What happens next in the investigation?

The FBI will review phone records, fingerprints, and local video footage. They aim to identify who built or placed the hunting stand.