Suspected Car Bomb Kills One in Palm Springs: FBI and Local Authorities Investigating
PALM SPRINGS — A deadly explosion rocked a medical facility in central Palm Springs late Saturday morning, killing one person and injuring several others. Authorities say the blast occurred just outside a fertility clinic on North Indian Canyon Drive, near East Tachevah Drive, in what officials are now calling an “intentional act of violence.”
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills confirmed in a press conference that the explosion appears to have been caused by a bomb placed in or near a parked vehicle. The blast severely damaged nearby businesses and shattered windows across multiple blocks, sending debris flying into the street. First responders arrived quickly and cordoned off the area, which remains an active crime scene.
“This was not an accident,” said Chief Mills. “We are working with state and federal partners to determine the origin and motive behind this act.”
The FBI deployed bomb technicians, forensic teams, and federal investigators from its Los Angeles field office to assist. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is also involved in the investigation, along with Homeland Security.
California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed within hours of the incident. A spokesperson for the governor said the state is “fully coordinating resources with local and federal law enforcement” and emphasized support for the impacted community.
Dr. Maher Abdallah, the director of the American Reproductive Centers, confirmed in a statement that none of the clinic’s staff were harmed. Although the clinic’s reception area was damaged, he reassured the public that their IVF laboratory and storage facilities for embryos were not impacted by the explosion.
Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte released a statement expressing sorrow for the loss of life and promising full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. “This was a targeted attack, and our residents deserve answers. We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice,” he said.
Nearby businesses, including a Denny’s and Desert Regional Medical Center, reported structural damage, though no additional casualties were reported from those locations. Witnesses several blocks away reported hearing a thunderous boom and described smoke, shattered glass, and a strange chemical smell following the blast.
Authorities have not released the identity of the deceased pending next-of-kin notification. As of Saturday evening, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The Palm Springs Police Department has asked anyone with video footage or information about the incident to call their tip line. They have also warned residents not to handle any debris that may have originated from the explosion, as it may be hazardous or contain forensic evidence.
KPS4 will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
