Police in Palm Springs investigates explosion outside a fertility clinic
UPDATE (4:30 PM): Authorities in Palm Springs are holding a press conference to provide updates regarding the explosion outside a fertility clinic.
To watch the livestream of the press conference, see attached video.
UPDATE (4:21 PM): Congressman Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) issued the following statement on the explosion near the fertility clinic:
"The explosion at the American Reproductive Centers IVF facility in Palm Springs is horrible. My heart is with Dr. Abdullah and staff and the people in Palm Springs, and I pray for the family of the person who died. My team and I are closely monitoring the situation and investigations. I thank all law enforcement officers and first responders for their excellent work."
UPDATE (3:54 PM): American Reproductive Centers-Palm Springs issued a statement on their Facebook page saying in part, "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."
"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."
American Reproductive Centers-Palm Springs
In addition, the Los Angeles office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobaco, Firearms and Explosives posted to X saying they are assisting in the investigation.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi posted to X saying she was briefed on the explosion while adding, "We are working to learn more, but let me be clear: the Trump administration understands that women and mothers are the heartbeat of America. Violence against a fertility clinic is unforgivable."
UPDATE (3:09 PM): According to police on scene, a car exploded near a hospital and at least one person was killed.
It happened at around 11:00 a.m. Saturday. Police said five others were injured, and said they believe it was intentional.
A doctor who runs the clinic says while the blast damaged office space, the IVF lab and all of the stored embryos were not harmed.
Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills says the FBI are on scene working closely with the Palm Springs Police Department to investigate the explosion, which was confirmed by the FBI's Los Angeles Bureau in a post on X.
Chief Mills also said some buildings were severely damaged and the "blast field" stretched for blocks.
California Governor Gavin Newsom posted to X saying he was briefed on the explosion while adding, "Jen and I are keeping everyone affected in our hearts. The state is working closely with local and federal authorities as the investigation unfolds. Please avoid the area."
PALM SRPINGS, Calif. (CNN, KYMA/KECY) - Police are on the scene of an explosion outside a fertility clinic in Palm Springs.
It happened on Saturday outside American Reproductive Centers. Right now, it is unclear what caused the blast and whether anyone was hurt.
American Reproductive Centers provides fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization and egg freezing among its services.
Witnesses say the back of the building was blown out and the roof had collapsed.
A hospital, liquor store and pancake house across the street from the fertility clinic had windows blown out because of the explosion.
Police are in the earliest stages of their investigation and will release more information once it becomes available.
