Driver dead, Multnomah Athletic Club closed after vehicle with ‘explosive devices’ crashes into building

One person was found dead inside a vehicle that crashed through the front entrance of the Multnomah Athletic Club early Saturday, authorities said. Federal and local law enforcement said they believe the incident was isolated.

At a news conference Saturday afternoon, Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief James Crooker said that around 2:49 a.m. Saturday, Multnomah Athletic Club workers saw a vehicle circling the area before it crashed through a window into the building and became engulfed in flames. Employees called 911, and the club reported no injuries to members, staff or guests.

Firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire. After the flames were put out, crews discovered one person, the driver, dead inside the vehicle.

Portland police later confirmed that multiple explosive devices were found in the car. Officials said some devices failed to detonate, while others were in “varying states of activation.”

The Oregonian reported, citing a law enforcement source, that the suspect described as a “disgruntled former employee” who had previously worked at the club and drove a rented vehicle into the building before setting off explosive devices. KGW has not independently confirmed that information.

Read more: KGW