A suspected terrorist vehicle explosion occurred at an infertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, resulting in the death of one suspect and injuries to four others.
According to Yonhap News and foreign media reports, the incident took place at around 11 a.m. on the 17th (local time). The deceased was identified as the suspect, who died at the scene. The identities and conditions of the injured have not yet been disclosed. At the time, the clinic was closed for the weekend, and no hospital staff or patients were harmed.
The explosion had a wide-reaching impact. The sound and shockwave were felt more than 3 kilometers away, and nearby shops suffered broken windows. Authorities advised residents to avoid the area immediately after the incident.
The clinic’s in vitro fertilization laboratory and embryo storage facilities were located separately from the main building, reportedly avoiding direct damage.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) stated that the incident was clearly an intentional act of terrorism. However, the agency has not yet officially announced a specific motive or the suspect’s identity.
According to investigators, the suspect had posted online statements expressing the belief that “the population should not increase any further” prior to the crime and appeared to have intended to film or livestream the act. Analysts believe these clues led the FBI to classify the incident as terrorism.
Dr. Maher Abdalla, who operates the clinic, said, “I simply cannot understand the situation,” but added, “Fortunately, today was not a treatment day, so there were no patients. That is a small relief amid this misfortune.”
Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney General, strongly condemned the incident, stating, “The Trump administration is keenly aware that women and mothers are at the heart of the nation. Acts of violence targeting infertility treatment facilities are absolutely unacceptable.”
Palm Springs, a desert city located about two hours east of Los Angeles, is well known for its luxury resorts and celebrity residences.
This incident has drawn particular attention as it occurred amid intensifying conflicts between progressives and conservatives and growing controversy over abortion and reproductive medical services. Investigators are focusing on the possibility that the attack was a politically motivated act of terrorism targeting a medical facility, and are concentrating their efforts on determining the specific motive.
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