Police in Portland, Oregon, are investigating after a vehicle crashed into the Multnomah Athletic Club early on Saturday morning, resulting in the death of the driver and the discovery of explosives in the car.
The incident occurred shortly before 3am when the car ploughed through the front entrance of the club and caught fire. Firefighters extinguished the blaze and found a person dead inside the vehicle.
Investigators later discovered evidence of an explosive device, prompting the involvement of an explosive disposal unit. Sources told the Oregonian newspaper that the driver was a former employee of the club, who was believed to be disgruntled and struggling with mental health issues.
The former employee reportedly rented a car on Friday and used it to drive into the building and around the first floor before detonating explosive devices, thought to include propane tanks and pipe bombs. The first floor houses a restaurant, event spaces, a members' lounge and a retail store.
A club spokesperson, Adam Linnman, confirmed that no members or staff were injured as the club was closed at the time. The club will remain shut until further notice, and authorities—including the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives—are leading the investigation.
