A car carrying explosive devices crashed into a sports club in Portland, Oregon, early Saturday morning, resulting in the death of the driver. Emergency services responded to the Multnomah Athletic Club at 1849 Southwest Salmon Street after reports that a vehicle had smashed through the front entrance and caught fire.
Portland Police confirmed that after the fire was extinguished, one person was found deceased inside the vehicle. The driver has not yet been identified. The Portland Police Bureau's Explosive Disposal Unit was called to the scene after evidence of an explosive device was discovered in the car.
The FBI Portland field office is also assisting with the investigation. Authorities have closed Southwest 18th Avenue between Southwest Taylor Street and Southwest Madison Street, as well as Southwest 20th Avenue between Southwest Morrison Street and Southwest Madison Street. The public is advised to avoid the area.
The Multnomah Athletic Club issued a statement on Facebook, announcing that the club will remain closed until further notice. "The MAC remains closed until further notice following a serious incident," the statement read. "At this time, we do not have a timeline for reopening, but we’re expecting a prolonged closure."
The club emphasized that their priority is ensuring the safety of members and staff, and they are cooperating fully with the Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue. Additional updates will be provided via the club's app, website, and email to members.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to email crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov.
