An explosion outside a fertility clinic in California killed one person and “severely” damaged several buildings.
“The blast appears to be an intentional act of violence, and it extends for blocks, with several buildings damaged, some severely,” the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) said in a press release posted on Facebook several hours after the incident on Saturday, May 17.
According to police, the blast was caused by a “vehicle explosion at 1199 N. Canyon” — the address of the American Reproductive Centers (ARC), a facility that provides services such as IVF and egg freezing, according to its website.
The PSPD stated in the release that local authorities are currently working closely with the FBI to determine the next steps in the investigation, and that the identity of the single fatality is unknown.
“The incident appears to be isolated,” police said.
PEOPLE contacted the Palm Springs Police Department for comment on May 17, but did not receive an immediate response.
According to the New York Times, the explosion took place around 11 a.m. local time, less than a mile from the city’s downtown. According to the outlet, many local businesses had their windows completely blown out.
“I was just in my shop waiting for clients, and all of a sudden it felt like a big explosion,” Claudio Chavez, an employee at a nearby upholstery store, told the Times.
“It broke out our window. “I just saw a lot of smoke,” he explained.
Scott Pastorius, who was four blocks away in his vacation home when the explosion occurred, told the outlet that he initially thought it was a “earthquake,” but then realized “it was too intense.”
“The whole house rattled, and then the glass in the door I saw flexing,” he observed.
In a statement on X, California Governor Gavin Newsom said he had been “briefed” on the incident and that he and his wife “are keeping everyone affected in our hearts.”
“The state is collaborating closely with local and federal authorities as the investigation progresses. “Please avoid the area,” the politician said.
On May 17, the ARC released a statement about the incident on its Facebook page.
“This morning, an unexpected and tragic incident occurred outside our Palm Springs facility when a vehicle exploded in the parking lot near our building. We are heartbroken to learn that this event claimed a life and injured others, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the individuals and families affected,” the statement read.
“ARC will be fully operational on Monday morning, and our team is available to address any concerns you may have.” We appreciate the tremendous support from our patients and the local community, as well as the prompt action of Palm Springs Police, Fire, and emergency responders. This moment has shaken us, but it has not deterred us. We will continue to serve with strength, love, and hope, bringing new life into the world,” the organization stated.
According to authorities, no suspect has been identified as of yet.