Deadly car explosion in Palm Springs: FBI investigating blast near health facility
One person has died and five others were injured after a powerful car explosion in Palm Springs, California. Authorities are investigating the cause as federal agencies join the scene.
A car explosion in Palm Springs, California, resulted in one fatality and five injuries on Saturday morning, according to law enforcement sources. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. and caused extensive damage to surrounding businesses, leaving behind a large debris field. Authorities described the blast as “powerful,” with its impact felt across multiple city blocks.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, and it remains unclear whether the individual was a bystander or connected to the explosion. The nature and severity of the injuries sustained by the five others have not been disclosed. Local emergency services quickly responded to the scene, while federal agencies launched a joint investigation.
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Federal agencies respond amid unclear motive
The FBI’s Los Angeles field office confirmed via social media that it is leading the investigation, with bomb technicians and an evidence response team deployed to the scene. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is also assisting. So far, no information has been released regarding a motive or potential target, though reports indicate the explosion occurred near a health facility.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the incident, and his office has acknowledged that the explosion happened at or near a medical site. Authorities have not confirmed whether the nearby fertility clinic was involved or targeted. As of now, investigators are treating the site as active and have not ruled out any scenarios.
Eyewitness footage shows destruction in business district
Verified videos posted to social media show the moment of the blast, with thick smoke rising from a building and debris scattered across a wide area. Firefighters were seen entering businesses with hoses, and many storefronts had their windows blown out. Several buildings also suffered structural damage, indicating the force of the explosion was significant.
The explosion has disrupted business operations in the area, though officials have not yet detailed the full extent of the damage. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information or footage of the incident to contact local law enforcement or the FBI. Further updates are expected as officials work to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the blast.
