The explosion at an Air Force base in California is now being investigated as an act of terrorism, a new CBS report revealed.
Law enforcement sources told CBS that a car loaded with propane tanks was driven through the main gate at Travis Air Force Base on Wednesday night, March 21, before exploding into flames.
A video posted on an Air Force forum on Facebook showed military personnel fighting to put the fire out. The base’s Explosive Ordinance Disposal team also responded, along with the Office of Special Investigation.
The sources said the driver deliberately ignited the fire, before dying inside the car.
Law enforcement officials have identified the driver but not released his name publicly.
Investigators are treating the incident as an act of terrorism, prompting FBI agents to join the Air Force in the investigation.
The driver gained “unauthorized access” to the main gate, authorities told the Los Angeles Times.
Please advise the latest update on the incident at the Main Gate. #TravisStrong pic.twitter.com/yo8xWJUSQI
— Travis AFB Official (@Travis60AMW) March 22, 2018
Air Force officials said there was no threat to the base, which houses some 7,000 active military members and 3,700 civilians. It’s the largest military aerial port in the United States.
The safety and welfare of our airmen, their families, and our local community is our top priority,” Col. John Klein, commander of the 60th Air Mobility Wing at Travis, in a 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,” he said.
He added, “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 investigative process.”
#TeamTravis
Security Forces personnel have begun implementing additional security measures at the main and hospital gates. Be prepared for longer than usual commute times. #TravisStrong— Travis AFB Official (@Travis60AMW) March 23, 2018
On Friday morning, the base’s official Twitter account released another statement.
“Security Forces personnel have begun implementing additional security measures at the main and hospital gates. Be prepared for longer than usual commute times,” it stated.
Epoch Times reporter Tom Ozimek contributed to this report.
From NTD.tv
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