Photo: GABRIEL OSORIO / AFP / Getty Images
The FBI has labeled the explosion at a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, as an "intentional act of terrorism." The blast on Saturday (May 17) resulted in one fatality and injured four others. Several buildings were severely damaged in the explosion, which occurred at 11 a.m. local time.
Akil Davis, head of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, confirmed that the fertility clinic was deliberately targeted. However, he did not elaborate on the motive behind the attack. Authorities are investigating whether the explosion was livestreamed and have deployed bomb technicians to the scene.
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills described the explosion as an isolated incident, assuring residents that the community is no longer at risk. The explosion is believed to have originated from a vehicle parked near the clinic, leaving only the vehicle's axle at the scene.
The American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic confirmed that while their office space was damaged, the IVF lab and stored embryos were unharmed. Dr. Maher Abdallah, who runs the clinic, expressed relief that no patients were present at the time of the explosion.
Although a person of interest has been identified, authorities have not disclosed their identity or confirmed if the deceased individual was connected to the blast.
Palm Springs Mayor Pro Tem Naomi Soto emphasized the resilience of the community, stating, "This is a building where hope lives, and we’re confident it will continue long after."
The clinic plans to resume operations on May 19.
California Governor Gavin Newsom shared his condolences on social media and assured that the state is working closely with local and federal authorities as the investigation unfolds.