Authorities in Florida apprehended a man early Tuesday morning after discovering a loaded AR-15 rifle and multiple knives inside a rental vehicle parked in a restricted area at a Palm Beach County Airport, as per law enforcement officials.
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) deputies responded around 7:10 a.m. after airport operations staff reported a suspicious individual standing outside a dark-colored vehicle in a secure parking zone.
When deputies arrived, they found the man, later identified as Michael Rodrigues, 41, of no known local address, outside the vehicle, reportedly getting dressed. Deputies determined the vehicle was a rental and found a fully loaded AR-15 magazine inside the glove compartment.
A thorough search of the vehicle revealed a loaded AR-15 rifle and several knives hidden beneath a blanket on the seat. The man was taken into custody without incident and is currently being interviewed by detectives.
Rodrigues has not yet been formally charged, but the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to obtain a search warrant for further examination of the vehicle and any related evidence.
The airport is known to be used by President Trump, though officials confirmed Trump is not currently in Florida.
A law enforcement source indicates that no threats have been made and the motive behind the incident remains unclear at this time.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com
