A deadly explosion near a fertility clinic in Palm Springs has been classified as an “intentional act of terrorism,” according to the FBI.
The blast, which occurred just before 11:00 local time on Saturday, killed one person and injured four others. Authorities are still determining whether the attack was domestic or international in origin.
The explosion happened less than a mile from downtown Palm Springs, in a commercial area that includes the American Reproductive Centers (ARC). While the clinic sustained damage, officials confirmed that none of its staff or patients were harmed. The source of the explosion was believed to be in or near a vehicle parked close to the facility.
“This was a deliberate attack,” said Akil Davis, head of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, during a press conference. “As our investigation unfolds, we will determine whether it falls under international or domestic terrorism.”
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills confirmed significant damage to several surrounding buildings, with some structures left severely compromised. The identity of the person who died in the blast has not yet been disclosed.
Rhino Williams, a local restaurant owner, was among the first at the scene. “At first, I thought a plane had crashed,” he said. He ran to the site and found part of a car burning in the parking lot and walls of the building blown out. He also noticed an iPhone on a tripod nearby, suggesting the explosion may have been recorded.
The ARC clinic reassured the public that their laboratory, including all stored eggs and embryos, was fully secure and undamaged. “Our operations and sensitive medical areas were not impacted by the blast,” the clinic said in a statement. However, the clinic’s founder, Dr. Maher Abdallah, told the Associated Press that their offices did suffer damage. “Thank God today happened to be a day with no patients,” he said.
California Governor Gavin Newsom said the state is working closely with local and federal agencies in response to the incident. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has also been briefed.
The FBI confirmed it has identified a “person of interest” but noted that there is no active manhunt at this time. Palm Springs Mayor Ron De Harte told CBS News that initial reports suggest the explosion originated from or near a vehicle parked close to the building.
The fertility clinic, known for being the first full-service IVF center in the Coachella Valley, offers a range of reproductive services, including fertility evaluations, egg freezing, and surrogacy.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more details become available.
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