Police in Portland, Oregon, are investigating after a vehicle ploughed into the Multnomah Athletic Club early on Saturday, with the driver found dead inside and explosives later discovered in the car.
The incident occurred shortly before 3am local time when the car crashed through the front entrance of the club and caught fire. Fire crews extinguished the blaze and found a person deceased inside the vehicle. An explosive disposal unit was called in after evidence of explosive devices was found.
According to local media reports, the driver was a former employee of the club, believed to be disgruntled and suffering from mental health issues. He is alleged to have rented a car on Friday, driven it into the building and around the first floor before detonating devices described as a mix of propane tanks and pipe bombs.
The club, which was closed at the time, confirmed no members or staff were injured. A statement from club spokesperson Adam Linnman said: 'We are cooperating fully with the Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, who are leading the investigation.' The facility remains closed until further notice.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has also dispatched special agents to assist with the investigation. The Multnomah Athletic Club, founded in 1891, is the largest private athletic and social club in the United States, with over 21,000 members.
