FBI: Fatal explosion near California fertility clinic an 'act of terror,' 1 dead
PALM SPRINGS, CA – A fatal explosion that rocked downtown Palm Springs the morning of May 17 was an “intentional act of terrorism” that left one person dead and four injured, an FBI official said.
Akil Davis, assistant director of the Los Angeles FBI field office, described it as "one of the largest bombing investigations we've had in Southern California." He said, "We have a person of interest in this investigation, but we are not actively out searching for a suspect."
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills said it appeared to be "an isolated incident," adding, "I am confident that the community is not at risk any longer."
Mills said the identity of the person of interest would not be released immediately to preserve the integrity of the investigation.
"I’m really saddened by today’s attack on our city, but I’m also hopeful because this city will rise and this city has resilience," he said. "Terrorism came knocking on the door of Palm Springs. We survived. I can tell you that this city will rise and be more effective as a beacon of hope than before."
The percussive boom rattled homes and startled residents across the desert city, a historic tourist destination for Southern Californians, at 10:52 a.m., according to The Desert Sun, part of the Paste BN Network. A Facebook page for the fertility clinic indicates it is open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The incident was initially reported as a car explosion near the American Reproductive Centers clinic on North Indian Canyon Drive at East Tachevah Drive. Police declined to comment on whether the explosion was caused by a bomb.
While several buildings were damaged, some severely, the fertility clinic reported on social media that all its staff were safe, and no eggs or embryos were damaged.
Images of the scene showed windows blown out, broken roof tiles and debris covering the roads close to the American Reproductive Centers and the surrounding area.
"This is a building where hope lives and we’re confident it will continue long after," Mayor Pro Tem Naomi Soto said about the fertility clinic during an evening news conference.
No eggs or embryos damaged, clinic says
The American Reproductive Centers in Palm Springs released a statement on Facebook about what it called "an unexpected and tragic incident" caused by a vehicle explosion in the parking lot near its building.
"We are heartbroken to learn that this event claimed a life and caused injuries, and our deepest condolences go out to the individuals and families affected," the clinic wrote.
In the statement, the clinic confirmed that no members of its team were harmed and its lab, including all eggs, embryos and reproductive materials, "remains fully secure and undamaged." The clinic is also conducting a "complete safety inspection," but said its operations and sensitive medical areas were not impacted by the blast.
"Our mission has always been to help build families, and in times like these, we are reminded of just how fragile and precious life is," the clinic wrote. "In the face of this tragedy, we remain committed to creating hope – because we believe that healing begins with community, compassion, and care."
The clinic thanked all the first responders and said it will be fully operational on the morning of May 19.
"This moment has shaken us – but it has not stopped us. We will continue to serve with strength, love, and the hope that brings new life into the world," the Facebook post reads.
Where did the explosion happen?
The explosion occurred near the American Reproductive Centers along North Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, California.
According to its website, American Reproductive Centers opened in 2006 and is "Coachella Valley’s first and only full-service fertility center & IVF lab."
Residents report possible body, debris after explosion
Matt Spencer, a Palm Springs resident who lives in an apartment about 200 yards from where the explosion occurred, told the Desert Sun he walked past the American Reproductive Center about five minutes after he heard the boom.
The resident added that he saw the front of the center being blown across the street and into the parking lot of the Desert Regional Medical Center, while the rear axle of a vehicle was burning behind the building. He also described a gruesome scene of wreckage and body parts.
"It was so loud it shook me," Palm Springs resident Tamara Cash, who was jogging a few blocks away when she heard the explosion, told the Desert Sun.
As of noon local time, police and ambulances were still arriving at the scene near Desert Regional, and helicopters were hovering over people a couple of blocks away, walking to brunch without a clue of what just happened a street over, the Desert Sun reported.
Social media captures aftermath of explosion
The aftermath of the explosion has been captured by social media users, and it shows extensive damage.
Gov. Gavin Newsom comments on explosion
California Gov. Gavin Newsom shared on X that he was briefed about the explosion near the fertility clinic in Palm Springs.
"Jen and I are keeping everyone affected in our hearts," Newsom's social media post says. "The state is working closely with local and federal authorities as the investigation unfolds. Please avoid the area."