A convicted felon was arrested at Palm Beach International Airport after deputies found a loaded AR-15 rifle and several knives in his rental car. The man, previously arrested for multiple felonies, was seen acting suspiciously in a restricted area and is now facing several charges, potentially preventing a mass shooting.

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WEST PALM BEACH, FL (2-minute read) — Authorities at Palm Beach International Airport may have prevented a tragic incident after detaining a man found with multiple weapons near a restricted area of the airport. Deputies with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) responded early in the morning to a report of a suspicious individual near a dark-colored vehicle parked in an unauthorized section of the airport.

When deputies arrived around 7:10 a.m., they found the man, later identified as 41-year-old Michael Rodrigues, standing outside the vehicle and apparently getting dressed. During their initial interaction, deputies discovered the car was a rental. When they opened the glove compartment to locate the rental agreement, they discovered a fully loaded AR-15 magazine.

Security Threat Discovered at PBIA: AR-15 and Knives Hidden in Car

Deputies quickly conducted a further search of the vehicle, where they found a loaded AR-15 rifle along with several knives concealed under a blanket on the passenger seat. Rodrigues was taken into custody without resistance and is currently being questioned by investigators.

Rodrigues faces multiple charges, including trespassing in a restricted operational area at the airport, possession of cocaine, and illegal possession of firearms by a convicted felon. His criminal history includes arrests for battery, burglary, and grand theft auto; all serious offenses that elevate the concern surrounding this incident.

Given the location and nature of the weapons found, law enforcement officials are considering the possibility that a mass casualty event may have been in the planning stages. The swift actions of airport operations staff and PBSO deputies likely averted a catastrophe.

This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance, especially in sensitive locations like airports. It also underscores the value of proactive security and situational awareness among personnel.

Safety Tip: Always secure your firearms properly, and remember: being vigilant in public spaces can save lives. Report suspicious behavior immediately to authorities.