- A fertility clinic explosion in Palm Springs killed one person, injured four, and is being investigated as an act of terrorism by the FBI.
- Authorities identified the deceased as Guy Bartkus, believed to be responsible for the attack, and are analyzing links to a property in Twentynine Palms.
- Investigators are examining an online recording tied to anti-IVF sentiments while urging residents to report suspicious activity.
An explosion outside a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, killed one person and injured four others on Saturday morning. The FBI identified the deceased as Guy Bartkus, 25, from Twentynine Palms. Authorities believe Bartkus may have been responsible for the attack, which officials are investigating as an act of terrorism. The blast left a trail of destruction, prompting a large-scale response from law enforcement and creating a massive crime scene.
FBI Declares Incident an Act of Terrorism
The FBI confirmed the explosion was intentional and classified it as an act of terrorism. Akil Davis, assistant director of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, stated, “This was a deliberate act targeting the fertility clinic.” The agency’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation alongside the Palm Springs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Officials are focusing on uncovering the motive behind the attack.
Investigation Expands to Twentynine Palms
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Law enforcement linked a property in Twentynine Palms, about 30 miles from Palm Springs, to the explosion. Officials evacuated a neighborhood during their search for additional evidence. Residents reported hearing a loud bang as officers worked to neutralize suspected bomb-making materials. Tactical teams used robots and other specialized equipment during the operation, ensuring public safety remained a priority.
While investigations continue, FBI officials clarified there are no known threats to public safety. However, they urged caution and asked residents to report any suspicious activity.
Online Recording Raises Questions
Authorities are examining a rambling online audio recording in which a man announced plans to attack a fertility clinic. The speaker criticized in vitro fertilization (IVF) and referred to himself as “anti-life.” Investigators are working to determine if the recording is connected to the Palm Springs explosion. The individual in the audio also discussed personal grievances and highlighted his belief in the right to die.
Witnesses Describe Chaos and Destruction
The explosion occurred at the American Reproductive Centers, a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, around 11 a.m. local time. Nearby business owners and customers recalled the terrifying moment. Nima Tabrizi, who witnessed the blast while shopping at a nearby dispensary, described hearing a loud boom followed by smoke and debris.
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“It looked like a movie,” Tabrizi shared. He added that fragments of what appeared to be human remains were scattered across the scene before first responders arrived.
Leon Bazilion, a delivery driver, witnessed the aftermath. “It’s just disaster everywhere—fire, debris, and a broken car,” Bazilion said. “How is this possible in Palm Springs?”
Videos from the scene show plumes of smoke, shattered windows, and frantic bystanders capturing the incident on their phones. The blast impacted a nearby liquor store and caused structural damage to buildings in the immediate area.
Authorities Urge Cooperation and Safety
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills called the explosion a “massive crime scene” and emphasized the complexity of processing evidence. He encouraged residents to leave any debris from the blast undisturbed and contact law enforcement for its collection.
Fire officials reported that one building caught fire and partially collapsed due to the explosion. Paul Alvarado, Palm Springs Fire Department Chief, said the structural damage complicated the rescue and cleanup efforts.
Governor Newsom Responds
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his concern and support for those affected. “Our hearts are with everyone impacted,” he shared on social media. Newsom assured the public that state and federal agencies are working closely to investigate the incident.
What Happens Next?
As investigators work to uncover the full scope of the incident, residents remain on edge. Authorities continue examining evidence, including forensic testing on the deceased. They are also exploring potential links between Bartkus and the fertility clinic.
The incident highlights growing concerns over domestic terrorism and the safety of community spaces. As more details emerge, officials are working diligently to restore peace and ensure justice for those affected.
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