'Genius' DWI suspect caught on airport runway

William Ware, 22, told officers he was “drunk as (expletive).” William Ware, 22, told officers he was “drunk as (expletive).” Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close 'Genius' DWI suspect caught on airport runway 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

He was a self-proclaimed genius who thought he was on an FBI training mission, but when all was said and done, the drunken-driving suspect was behind bars and facing a slew of charges after plowing through an airport fence and onto a runway, narrowly missing a private jet.

William Ware, 22, was pulled over at San Antonio International Airport after police responded to a call about 3 a.m. Wednesday regarding a motorist seen driving a Hyundai through a taxiway and onto the runway, a search warrant affidavit states.

When pulled over and questioned, Ware allegedly told officers that he was “drunk as (expletive) and a genius. I'm going to be the best of the best.”

He apparently believed he'd achieved his FBI training mission, the affidavit states.

Police discovered an open container holding an alcoholic beverage inside the Hyundai. Ware reportedly refused to provide a breath sample for testing, so officers instead obtained a warrant to draw his blood.

Ware, who was described as combative and talkative with officers, strongly smelled of alcohol, the affidavit states. He allegedly was falling over and swaying as he spoke with police.

Ware was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with criminal mischief, possession of a prohibited knife, criminal trespassing and driving while intoxicated. He remained behind bars Wednesday afternoon in lieu of posting $11,000 bail.

Airport officials declined to comment on the incident.

FBI spokeswoman Michelle Lee said Ware was not being trained by the agency, adding that the organization typically doesn't recruit people so young.

Recruits must have a four-year degree and at least three years of work experience, and the minimum age to apply is 23.

“We very rarely have folks that are 23 years of age apply,” Lee said. “These folks are usually in their late 20s.”

Lee said that when FBI officials hold training sessions at the San Antonio airport, the Police Department and airport officials are summoned to cordon an area away from passengers and airplanes.

Had there been a training exercise that day, “it would not have been anything that was a surprise,” Lee said. “And we definitely don't do any exercises if it appears an employee is under the influence of alcohol.”

aley@express-news.net