Daytona Beach International Airport Maintains Safe Operations Following Security Incident

Posted On: March 26, 2026

All people and aircraft remain safe, and airport operations are continuing as normal after an impaired driver crashed through a federally regulated, locked and secure gate at Daytona Beach International Airport yesterday.

The safety and security of the traveling public is always Daytona Beach International Airport's number one priority. We understand there are many questions about yesterday's incident. The information the airport can release is limited as this is an ongoing investigation.

Here is information we can share:

• At approximately 4:23 p.m., March 25, the suspect crashed his vehicle at a high rate of speed through a locked and secure gate, then drove onto the airfield towards the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University aircraft ramp where he attempted but was unsuccessful in gaining control to two aircraft.

• From the time the vehicle crashed through the gate to the time the suspect was restrained was less than 4 minutes.

• The perimeter fencing and gates meet or exceed federal regulations for airport security.

• Designated airport staff and deputies with the Volusia Sheriff's Office regularly patrol and inspect the Airport's perimeter fencing and gates.

• The airport has numerous security cameras that are closely monitored in real time.

We would like to commend the eyewitnesses who immediately called 911 to report the incident, and the Air Traffic Controller who quickly reported the suspicious vehicle and took action to ensure the safety of airfield operations.

We want to commend our Airport Operations Agent and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Security Officer who immediately responded to the breach and subsequently chased the suspect on foot and helped detain him. Also, the Volusia Sheriff's Office Deputies who swiftly took the suspect into custody.