Maine Man Allegedly Crashes Into Portland Jetport Runway

A 33-year-old Maine man named George Gillmore is facing charges after he allegedly crashed into the Portland Jetport's runway Sunday morning, according to WGME.

The news station reported that the car went through a fire gate near the jetport and continued right onto the runway.

The car, which was later abandoned after the crash, caused damage to the grass and collided with a fence, WGME stated. The news station noted that the runway had to be shut down for 40 minutes due to the crash

It's reported that Gillmore was staying at the Embassy Suites in Portland at the time and he declined to answer any questions.

This is not the first instance of a car crash at the Portland Jetport.

The Portland Press Herald reported back in 2019 about a car that broke through a fence and ended up near a runway. The newspaper noted that the crash seemed not to be intentional, but there was a good amount of damage done.

Interestingly, ABC News reported in February that "there were at least 1,633 runway incursions at U.S. airports."

The Federal Aviation Administration defines an "incursion" as "any occurrence at an aerodrome involving the incorrect presence of an aircraft, vehicle or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and take off of aircraft."

Gilmore has been summoned on charges of criminal trespass, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, and aggravated criminal mischief, according to WGME.

In addition, the news station reported that Portland police said he may even face federal charges and fines.