One person was killed and at least five people were injured in a vehicle explosion outside of a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, on Saturday morning, according to law enforcement sources and the facility.
Investigators believe the person who died was the suspect in the blast, according to a law enforcement source.
An active search is ongoing to determine if there are devices planted in the area.
“The blast appears to be an intentional act of violence and the blast extends for blocks with several buildings damaged, some severely,” Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills said in a statement.
Mills warned residents to be on the lookout for any potential evidence, and if they find it, leave it and call the authorities.
“Agents or officers will collect the evidence. Our first priority is to make the scene safe for our community,” he said.
Attorney General Pam Bondi released a statement on X stating that she had been briefed on the situation.
“Federal agents are on the ground now responding alongside local law enforcement. We are working to learn more,” she said, adding, “Violence against a fertility clinic is unforgivable.”
Residents were being instructed to stay away from North Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, California.
The American Reproductive Centers of Palm Springs said a car exploded outside its facility, but its staff, eggs, embryos and reproductive materials were unharmed.
“This morning, an unexpected and tragic incident occurred outside our Palm Springs facility when a vehicle exploded in the parking lot near our 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 ARC said in a statement.
“ARC will be fully operational on Monday morning, and our team is here to answer any concerns you may have. We appreciate the incredible support from our patients and local community, as well as the swift action of Palm Springs Police, Fire, and emergency responders. 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,’ ARC said in a statement.
The explosion occurred on North Indian Canyon Drive near East Tachevah Drive just before 11 a.m. local time.
Investigators raided a property in Twentynine Palms Saturday afternoon that was believed to be related to the suspect, sources with knowledge of the investigation said.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom was also briefed on the explosion.
“The state, through [California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services], is coordinating with local and federal authorities to support the response,” Newsom’s office said in a statement.
“The FBI is responding with police & fire partners to the scene of an explosion on N Indian Canyon Dr in PalmSprings,” the agency said in an X post. “FBI assets being deployed include investigators, bomb technicians & an evidence response team. Please contact local authorities for safety precautions in the area.”
In addition to the FBI, the ATF said it is also sending resources to Palm Springs to assist, including bomb techs and fire investigators.
-ABC News’ Jack Date, Alexander Mallin and Ivan Pereira contributed to this report.
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