New Delhi: A deadly explosion rocked Palm Springs, California, on Friday morning after a car bomb detonated outside a fertility clinic, leaving one person dead and several others injured. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
The blast occurred at approximately 10:52 am local time near the American Reproductive Centers, located at 1199 North Indian Canyon Drive. According to Palm Springs Police Lt. William Hutchinson, the explosion was “intentional” and caused significant damage in the area. Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein confirmed that the explosive device was planted in or near the vehicle.
FBI treats it as terrorism
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are working together to determine the nature and motive of the attack. FBI bomb experts have been deployed to the scene and the agency’s Los Angeles office stated that they are treating the blast as a possible act of terrorism.
Initial reports suggest one fatality, with at least five others injured, as per ABC News. Eyewitnesses described hearing a powerful explosion that shattered nearby windows and could be felt miles away. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, though graphic images from the scene suggest severe human injuries.
Clinic suffers structural damage
The American Reproductive Centers facility, known for offering fertility services such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), suffered major structural damage. However, the clinic confirmed that its IVF lab and stored embryos were not harmed. While the clinic does not perform abortions, some speculation online has linked the attack to ideological motives, though no evidence has confirmed such theories.
Founded in 2006, the centre is noted for supporting diverse families, including LGBTQ+ patients. Some social media users suggested this could have made it a target, but authorities have not confirmed any motive yet. Palm Springs police sealed off the surrounding area and urged the public to avoid North Indian Canyon Drive. Emergency services, including firefighters, responded quickly to control the scene and aid victims. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility and investigators continue to piece together details amid ongoing concerns about public safety.
