According to ABC7, law enforcement sources as well as those at the facility reported that at least five people were injured in the blast and that the person who died is believed to be a suspect.
The sources also told the outlet that there was a search around the area to see if there were any explosive devices planted.
According to Fox News, FBI bomb technicians were working on the scene of the explosion in Palm Springs, which left a swath of damage to the reproductive center as well as surrounding buildings. FBI investigators were also on the scene.
The agency told the outlet that the FBI is responding "with investigators, bomb techs and [its] Evidence Response Team."
"We are aware of the explosion that occurred this morning in Palm Springs. FBI is on scene and will be investigating whether this was an intentional act. We will release as much information as possible once we are able to confirm details," US Attorney Bill Essayli said of the situation on X.
The explosion happened just before 11 am local time on North Indian Canyon Drive near Tachevah Drive. Following the explosion, the Palm Springs Police Department's William Hutchinson said, "Everything is in question, whether this is an act of terrorism."
According to the Associated Press, Dr. Maher Abdallah, who is at the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic, said all staff was accounted for. The explosion is being investigated as a potential car explosion.
"I really have no clue what happened,” Abdallah added. “Thank God today happened to be a day that we have no patients.”
"We are heartbroken to learn that this event claimed a life and caused injuries, and our deepest condolences go out to the individuals and families affected. Our mission has always been to help build families, and in times like these, we are reminded of just how fragile and precious life is," he continued. "In the face of this tragedy, we remain committed to creating hope — because we believe that healing begins with community, compassion, and care."
The explosion from the blast damaged the office space of the fertility practice, but the IVF lab as well as the embryos being stored were not harmed by the explosion. The windows of multiple surrounding building were blown out from the blast. It was felt by some as far as two miles away from the incident.
This is a developing story. Please refresh for updates.
