A Florida man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he crashed his vehicle through a secured airport gate and attempted to board an aircraft at Daytona Beach International Airport while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, as reported [1] by The New York Post.
Bryan J. Parker, 58, of Holly Hill, was arrested Wednesday afternoon following the incident, which unfolded over a span of just four minutes, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Department and airport officials.
Authorities said Parker drove his Ford Mustang through a federally regulated, locked gate at the airport before continuing across an active taxiway.
Accused of DUI, Bryan Parker, 58, of Holly Hill crashed onto the runway at Daytona Beach airport and attempted to enter a locked plane after speeding through a gate at the international terminal. ✈️ pic.twitter.com/FRYPLLybfM [2]
— American Crime Stories (@AmericanCrime01) March 26, 2026 [3]
The vehicle traveled in the direction of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where flight training operations were underway at the time.
Officials reported that Parker nearly collided with a student-training aircraft while crossing the taxiway.
After abandoning his vehicle, he allegedly attempted to board at least two planes on the airfield before being stopped by law enforcement and airport personnel.
Body camera footage released by authorities shows Parker, who was barefoot at the time, being restrained by deputies and airport officials. During the arrest, he appeared disoriented and admitted to recent drug and alcohol use.
“I don’t remember. I was at my house. I went to an AA meeting, and next thing I know, I’m doing cocaine, drinking, and smoking pot,” Parker said in the footage.
A deputy responded, “So you were doing all kinds of drugs and ran through a gate?”
“Yeah, and I crashed my car,” Parker replied.
Moments later, while being escorted to a patrol vehicle, Parker appeared confused about the situation.
“What’s my car doing over there. What the f–k is my car doing over there?” he said.
NEW: Florida man leaves AA meeting, does cocaine, drinks, and smokes pot, then crashes through the gate at Daytona Beach Airport and tries to hijack a plane
“I was at my house, I went to an AA meeting, and next thing I know I’m doing cocaine, drinking, and smoking pot…”
Bryan… pic.twitter.com/ypz5SVXsBx [4]
— Unlimited L’s (@unlimited_ls) March 26, 2026 [5]
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident despite the proximity to aircraft operations.
Parker has been charged with multiple offenses, including attempted aircraft piracy, burglary of a conveyance, felony trespass at an airport, exposure of a sexual organ, criminal mischief, DUI property damage, and refusal to submit to testing.
Daytona Beach International Airport issued a statement following the incident, highlighting the role of bystanders and personnel in preventing further danger.
“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,” the airport said.
Officials emphasized that safety protocols were followed and that the situation was handled quickly.
“The safety and security of the traveling public is always Daytona Beach International Airport’s number one priority,” the statement continued.
Airport officials also noted that details remain limited as the investigation continues.
“We understand there are many questions about yesterday’s incident. The information the airport can release is limited as this is an ongoing investigation.”
Law enforcement agencies are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how Parker was able to breach the secured gate and access the active airfield.