Explosion damages Palm Springs reproductive center and other buildings, FBI bomb techs on scene
Authorities investigating an explosion in Palm Springs, California, that damaged several businesses, including a reproductive center on North Indian Canyon Drive.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) bomb technicians are investigating after an explosion in Palm Springs, California, on Saturday left a swath of destruction near a fertility clinic.
The blast happened just before 11 a.m. local time on North Indian Canyon Drive near East Tachevah Drive, near an American Reproductive Centers facility.
The FBI National Press Office confirmed to Fox News Digital it is responding "with investigators, bomb techs and [its] Evidence Response Team."
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Posts on social media appear to show nearby businesses with glass and debris blown out of windows.
The American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic said no staff members were harmed, and while the building was damaged, the IVF lab — including eggs, embryos and reproductive materials — were spared.
"This morning, an unexpected and tragic incident occurred outside our Palm Springs facility when a vehicle exploded in the parking lot near our building," the company wrote in a Facebook post. "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."
Police officials said it appears there was at least one fatality, according to a report from the Desert Sun. The number of injuries has not yet been released.
The company said it is conducting "a complete safety inspection," and confirmed operations and sensitive medical areas were not impacted by the blast.
"Our mission has always been to help build families, and in times like these, we are reminded of just how fragile and precious life is," the post read. "In the face of this tragedy, we remain committed to creating hope — because we believe that healing begins with community, compassion, and care. … 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."
Palm Springs Police Department and fire officials are on scene and requested residents stay away from the area, so emergency crews can work, according to a Facebook post from the City of Palm Springs.
The Palm Springs Police Department's active call log lists multiple responses for medical service on the 1100 block of N Palm Canyon Drive, beginning just before 11 a.m. local time.
There were also various calls for burglaries in the area, according to police records.
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The cause of the explosion has not yet been released.
Officials said they are not ruling out the incident being an "act of terrorism," the Desert Sun reported.
Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, said in an X post that his office will release "as much as possible," once details are confirmed.
"We are aware of the explosion that occurred this morning in Palm Springs," Essayli wrote in the post. "FBI is on scene and will be investigating whether this was an intentional act. We will release as much information as possible once we are able to confirm details."
Gov. Gavin Newsom's press office confirmed he was briefed on the explosion.
"The state, through @Cal_OES, is coordinating with local and federal authorities to support the response," according to an X post.
The Palm Springs Police Department, Palm Springs Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, and Desert Regional Medical Center did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's requests for comment.
The Riverside County Sheriff's Office told Fox News Digital it is not responding to the incident.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
