Early Saturday morning, a person was found dead after a vehicle plowed into the Multnomah Athletic Club in downtown Portland, Oregon. Police and fire crews responded to the scene shortly before 3 a.m. after the car crashed through the front entrance and caught fire. Once the blaze was extinguished, a deceased individual was discovered inside the vehicle.
Explosives Discovered
Investigators later uncovered evidence of an explosive device within the car, prompting the arrival of an explosive disposal unit. According to the Oregonian newspaper, sources indicated that the driver was a former employee of the club, allegedly disgruntled and dealing with mental health issues. The individual reportedly rented a car on Friday, drove it into the building, and navigated around the first floor before detonating explosive devices believed to be a combination of propane tanks and pipe bombs.
Club Facilities and Response
The first floor of the club housed a casual restaurant, formal event spaces, a members' lounge overlooking Providence Park, a retail store, and the front desk. Additional amenities included workout rooms, pools, a rock-climbing wall, an indoor track, various sports courts, and three other restaurants. Club spokesperson Adam Linnman stated that the crash occurred while the club was closed, and no members or staff were injured. He deferred further details to local and federal authorities.
A note on the club's website announced that the facility would remain closed until further notice and urged members and neighbors to avoid the area during the investigation. The statement emphasized full cooperation with the Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, who are leading the inquiry. Special agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also responded to the scene.
Background of the Club
The Multnomah Athletic Club, founded in 1891, bills itself as the largest private athletic and social club in the United States, boasting more than 21,000 members.
