Drunk Driver Storms Daytona Airport, Tries to Board Planes

A Florida man has been arrested after allegedly crashing through a perimeter gate at Daytona Beach International Airport and attempting to board multiple aircraft while intoxicated, authorities said.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 4:25 p.m. Wednesday Mar. 25 after reports that a blue Ford Mustang had driven through a secured airport fence, destroying the gate and entering restricted airfield areas.

The vehicle reportedly continued onto the taxiway near the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University section of the airport, where witnesses said it nearly struck an aircraft that was in motion.

The driver, identified as 58-year-old Bryan J. Parker, allegedly exited the vehicle and attempted to board an occupied aircraft before being stopped. Authorities say he then ran toward other planes on the airfield, making multiple attempts to enter additional aircraft.

Airport operations personnel and Embry-Riddle security staff quickly intervened, detaining the suspect. However, officials said Parker briefly broke free, jumped off a truck tailgate where he had been restrained, and attempted to board yet another aircraft before being apprehended again.

Investigators said Parker later admitted to being under the influence of alcohol and drugs and claimed he could not remember the events leading up to the incident.

He has been charged with multiple offenses, including attempted aircraft piracy, burglary of a conveyance, felony trespass, criminal mischief, DUI with property damage, and refusal to submit to testing.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about airport perimeter security and access control, particularly at facilities that combine commercial operations with aviation training environments. Authorities have not reported any injuries, and airport operations were not significantly disrupted.

Officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the breach, including how the vehicle was able to access restricted areas, as part of broader efforts to strengthen airport security and prevent similar incidents.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, kbtx.com