'Intentional act of terrorism': Bomb blast outside fertility clinic in California kills one, injures four

A bomb exploded outside a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, on Saturday (local time), killing one person and injuring four others, the New York Post reported.

Local authorities have called the blast an “intentional act of terrorism.” Palm Springs Mayor DeHarte said the explosion may have come from a car parked outside the American Reproductive Centres.

Palm Springs Fire Chief Paul Alvarado said, “The blast appears to be an intentional act of terrorism,” adding that the explosion caused severe damage to nearby buildings and debris was spread across several blocks.

According to sources cited by the Post, the person who died may have been the suspected bomber, but police only described them as someone “near the vehicle.” Officials have not identified the victim and declined to confirm if they were responsible for the bombing. However, police said there is no ongoing threat to the public and no search is underway for a suspect.

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Palm Springs Police Lt. William Hutchinson told the Desert Sun that authorities are still trying to determine whether the explosion qualifies as an act of terrorism.

Federal agencies including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are involved in the investigation. US Attorney Bill Essayli said the FBI would investigate whether the attack was intentional.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the attack, calling it “unforgivable.” She said federal agents are working alongside local law enforcement and emphasized the administration’s support for women and families.

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Police Chief Andy Mills said, “Terrorism came knocking on the door of Palm Springs. We survived. This city will rise stronger.”

The clinic, which offers fertility services such as in vitro fertilization and egg transfers, was closed at the time of the explosion. No abortion services are offered at the facility. Dr Maher Abdallah, who runs the clinic, said no patients were present, and all staff are safe. He confirmed that none of the stored embryos were harmed.

Sources told the Post that the blast was caused by a pipe bomb. Mayor DeHarte said early reports suggested it could have been a helicopter crash or gas leak, but both possibilities were ruled out. Firefighters responded around 11 a.m. local time.

Photos and videos showed shattered glass and debris outside the facility. Smoke was visible in the area, and some residents reported smelling a strange odor after the explosion, which could be felt up to three miles away.