A vehicle crashed into the Multnomah Athletic Club at approximately 2:49 a.m. on May 2, 2026. The incident led to a fire and the discovery of explosives inside the vehicle.
One person was found dead inside the vehicle after firefighters extinguished the flames. The driver is reported to be a former employee of the club.
The Portland Police Bureau’s Explosive Disposal Unit is currently investigating. Authorities discovered improvised explosive devices, including propane tanks and pipe bombs, inside the vehicle.
Road closures were implemented in the Goose Hollow neighborhood during the investigation. Officials have stated that this incident is isolated and not related to domestic terrorism.
The Multnomah Athletic Club has been part of the Portland community for 135 years. It serves approximately 21,000 members and will remain closed until further notice.
No members, staff, or guests of the club were injured during this incident. Police have not yet identified the deceased individual.
Jim DeFrain, supervisor of the Explosive Disposal Unit, remarked, “This is by far the most complex scene that I’ve ever dealt with.” Meanwhile, Police Chief Bob Day emphasized that high levels of explosives warranted an immediate response.
Steve Blair, a member of the club, expressed concern: “It’s got to be frightening to kind of see this going on.” The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the motive behind this tragic event.
