Deputies: Drunk Drives Through Fence Onto Airport Runway

News Channel 8 photo by John Winterrowd

At either end, chains can be seen holding up the fence gate at Vandenberg Airport. Most of the damage was done to the motor that opens and closes the gate.

By TBO.com
Published: September 22, 2008
Updated: September 22, 2008 - 3:33 PM

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A 51-year-old intoxicated woman drove through a fence and onto an airport runway, authorities said.

Kathy Lee Wilcox of 6810 Maple Lane, Tampa, drove her 2000 Hyundai through a 6-foot fence at the entrance to Vandenberg Airport this afternoon, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

According to a statement from the sheriff's office:

Witnesses said she drove up to the airport's closed gate on Eureka Springs Road, stopped her car and then drove through the fence, which is marked "No Trespassing." The fence also has a large stop sign posted near it.

Wilcox then drove onto the runway. Airport authorities boxed her vehicle in on the runway and called the sheriff's office. Sheriff's office aviation and canine units are housed at Vandenberg Airport. Deputies arrested Wilcox, charging her with driving under the influence involving property damage.

Estimated damage to the airport fence is $12,000, and the repair of the Hyundai is expected to cost $2,500.