Additional Coverage:
- Blast outside Palm Springs fertility clinic ‘intentional act of terrorism,’ FBI says (abcnews.go.com)
Palm Springs Terrorism: One Dead, Several Injured in Clinic Bombing
Palm Springs, CA – A Saturday morning explosion outside a fertility clinic has left one person dead and at least four injured. The FBI has declared the incident an act of terrorism, confirming the clinic was intentionally targeted.
The blast, which occurred around 11 a.m. local time, devastated the area surrounding the clinic on the 1300 block of Indian Canyon Drive. Windows shattered, debris rained down for blocks, and one building collapsed. The debris field spanned over 250 yards.
Authorities immediately closed off surrounding streets, urging residents to avoid the area as investigators meticulously combed the scene for additional explosive devices. Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills stressed the magnitude of the crime scene and the importance of ensuring public safety.
While the FBI has a person of interest, they are not actively searching for a suspect. The identity of the deceased remains unconfirmed, and authorities are investigating the connection between the deceased and the incident. FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis, leading the investigation, stated that it is one of the largest bombing investigations in Southern California history, drawing comparisons to the 2018 Aliso Viejo day spa bombing.
Though the investigation is ongoing, a law enforcement source indicated investigators believe the deceased individual is the suspect. The FBI’s bomb technicians are working diligently to determine the origin of the explosion, and the ATF is also providing resources and personnel.
The American Reproductive Centers of Palm Springs, the clinic near the blast, confirmed that its staff, along with all eggs, embryos, and reproductive materials, were unharmed. They expressed their condolences to the victims and their families and affirmed their commitment to resuming full operations on Monday.
Chief Mills expressed both sorrow and resolve, acknowledging the attack on the city while emphasizing its resilience. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the violence, assuring the public that federal agents are working alongside local law enforcement. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed state support for the response through Cal OES.