Suicidal driver bursts through military base gate in fiery crash; officials suspect terrorism

A vehicle burst through a gate at Travis Air Force Base before exploding into flames and crashing Wednesday night, and new details about the incident have investigators treating it as an act of terror, KOVR-TV reports.

What happened?

A vehicle carrying propane tanks breached the security gates at Travis AFB, which is located in Northern California.

Police believe the driver intentionally ignited the fire in the vehicle, causing the propane tanks to explode, killing him and sending the car into a ditch.

Why do they think it’s terrorism?

The fact that he purposely ignited the gas tanks is what has caused authorities to believe this could be an attempted terror attack.

The driver of the vehicle, who has been identified but not named, was the only person to die in the incident. No one else was injured.

Statement from Travis AFB

“Travis Air Force Base first responders are working with federal and local law enforcement agencies to investigate a security incident that occurred at the Travis Air Force Base main gate yesterday,” a statement from Travis AFB began.

“The safety and welfare of our Airmen, their families and our local community is our top priority,” Col. John Klein said in the statement. “I am extremely proud of how our first responders quickly addressed the situation to keep Travis and the surrounding area out of harm’s way. We are fortunate to have enduring relationships with federal and local law enforcement, and will continue to work hand-in-hand with them through the investigation process.”