A vehicle intentionally crashed into the Multnomah Athletic Club at approximately 2:49 a.m. on May 2, 2026, leading to a fire and the discovery of explosives inside. One person was found dead inside the vehicle after firefighters extinguished the blaze.
The driver was identified as a former employee of the club. Explosive devices, including propane tanks and pipe bombs, were discovered during the investigation. The Portland Police Bureau’s Explosive Disposal Unit is assisting with this ongoing investigation.
The crash occurred in the Goose Hollow neighborhood near Providence Park. Authorities implemented road closures in the area as they assessed the scene. The Multnomah Athletic Club has been part of the Portland community for 135 years and currently has around 21,000 members.
No members, staff, or guests were injured in this incident. Officials have not confirmed the identity of the deceased individual or the exact motive behind the driver’s actions. Police described this as an isolated incident that is not related to domestic terrorism.
Key quotes:
- “We are deeply saddened to learn that one individual was found deceased at the scene,” said a communications director from the Multnomah Athletic Club.
- “This is by far the most complex scene that I’ve ever dealt with,” stated Jim DeFrain, Explosive Disposal Unit supervisor.
- Police Chief Bob Day remarked, “The high levels of explosives and concern around fire and damage certainly warranted that early response.”
- Member Steve Blair expressed concern, saying, “It’s got to be frightening to kind of see this going on.”
The Multnomah Athletic Club will remain closed until further notice as investigations continue.
