The suspect has been identified as 58-year-old Bryan J. Parker. Authorities from the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office arrested him after he drove through a federally locked control gate at Daytona Beach International Airport on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the initial investigation, Parker drove a Ford Mustang across the taxiway toward Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He then abandoned the vehicle and attempted to board at least two aircraft, a dangerous situation reminiscent of past collisions between aircraft and construction vehicles at major airports.
The incident lasted about four minutes, nearly resulting in a collision with a training aircraft operating on the taxiway. Incidents involving vehicles crashing into critical infrastructure like this always put security forces on the highest alert.
Bodycam footage captured Parker being restrained while barefoot. When questioned, he claimed not to remember the events clearly:
“I don't remember. I was at home, went to an AA meeting, and then suddenly I was doing cocaine, drinking, and smoking weed.”
Drug-related legal issues are not uncommon in the area, similar to the previous case of a Florida mother arrested for drinking and abandoning her young children.
When police questioned him again, Parker confirmed: “Yeah, I did everything and drove through the gate.”
After being handcuffed, he continued to appear confused, repeatedly asking what had just happened.
Authorities stated that no one was injured in the incident.
Parker faces several serious charges, including:
- Attempting to seize control of an aircraft
- Trespassing on airport property
- Criminal mischief
- Driving under the influence
- Indecent exposure
- Refusal to submit to testing
Daytona Beach Airport stated they received timely warnings from witnesses and air traffic control, helping to prevent aviation safety risks, similar to how disruptive tourists at airports are restrained to ensure security.
The investigation is currently ongoing.
