By Gina Yarbrough
Palm Springs, CA–Authorities have confirmed that an explosion at a fertility clinic in Palm Springs on Saturday morning was an act of terrorism.
The blast occurred just before 11 a.m. at the American Reproductive Centers on North Indian Canyon Drive near East Tachevah Drive. One person was found dead near a charred vehicle behind the building, and four others sustained injuries. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released as the investigation is ongoing.
The Palm Springs Police Department responded to the scene along with multiple law enforcement agencies from across the Inland Empire. Federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) were also called in to assist.
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills stated that the explosion caused widespread damage.
“The blast appears to be an intentional act of violence, and the damage spans several blocks. Multiple buildings were impacted, some severely,” Mills said in a public statement.
During a press conference, Akil Davis, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, confirmed that the FBI’s Evidence Response Team was actively processing the scene and would remain there for several weeks.
“This was a powerful explosion, affecting a large area to the north, southeast, and west of the 1300 block of Indian Canyon,” Davis said.
He noted that nearby business windows were shattered and debris scattered across surrounding streets and sidewalks.
FBI bomb technicians are working to determine the precise origin and cause of the blast. Davis confirmed that the fertility clinic was the intended target.
“Make no mistake—this was an intentional act of terrorism,” Davis emphasized. “Our Joint Terrorism Task Force is fully engaged and working closely with the Palm Springs Police Department, the ATF, and other partner agencies.”
Authorities urge residents who encounter potential evidence not to disturb it. Instead, they should contact the non-emergency number so that agents or officers can properly collect and assess the material.
