On Saturday, May 17, 2025, a powerful explosion rocked Palm Springs, California, when a car bomb detonated outside the American Reproductive Centers, a local fertility clinic.

The blast occurred around 11:00 a.m. local time, killing one person and injuring at least four others. The FBI has confirmed that this was an intentional act of terrorism.

The explosion caused significant damage to the clinic and nearby buildings, shattering windows and scattering debris across several blocks. The blast was so strong that it was felt up to three miles away. A burned-out vehicle was found at the scene, believed to be the source of the explosion.

Authorities are investigating whether the person killed was the perpetrator, but have not yet confirmed their identity.

Dr. Maher Abdallah, who runs the clinic, stated that the facility was closed at the time, and no staff or patients were present. He also confirmed that the clinic’s in vitro fertilization lab and stored embryos were unharmed. “Thank God today happened to be a day that we have no patients,” he said.

The FBI has identified a person of interest in the case, 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus from Twentynine Palms, California.

Bartkus reportedly left behind writings and recordings expressing anti-natalist beliefs, suggesting that people should not be brought into the world without their consent.

Investigators believe he may have intended to record or live-stream the attack, as a camera on a tripod was found near the blast site.

Federal and local authorities, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are actively investigating the incident.

They have searched Bartkus’s residence and are working to determine the motive behind the attack. Officials have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills described the explosion as “an intentional act of violence” and emphasized the city’s resilience.

“Terrorism came knocking on the door of Palm Springs,” he said. “We survived, and I can tell you this city will rise and be more effective as a beacon of hope than …”

California Governor Gavin Newsom and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bond … have both condemned the attack. Bondi stated, “Violence against a fertility …,” highlighting the administration’s support for women and families.

The American Reproductive Centers clinic is expected to reopen on Monday. Dr. Abdallah expressed his commitment to continue providing fertility services to the community despite the traumatic event.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues

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