The person of interest in the “act of terrorism” that severely damaged a reproductive health facility in Palm Springs is dead, according to authorities.
While they were not identified by name, FBI Public Affairs Specialist Laura Eimiller confirmed to KTLA early Sunday morning that the person of interest is deceased. It was not confirmed, however, if they were the individual that officials said was found dead “near the car” that exploded around 11 a.m. Saturday outside American Reproductive Centers (ARC), an in vitro fertilization clinic.
Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte was one of the first officials to deem the incident “an intentional act of violence,” and the FBI later called it a “terrorism” act.
Akil Davis, Assistant Director for Los Angeles’ FBI field office, stated Saturday evening that law enforcement officials did “have a person of interest in [the] investigation” but were “not actively out searching for a suspect.”
The Associated Press reported that the person believed responsible for the alleged attack posted “rambling online writings” before the explosion.
“The suspect, who died in the explosion…also attempted to record video or stream the attack,” the AP reported, citing an anonymous official who was not authorized to discuss details of the incident.
The car explosion also left at least four people injured, but ARC stated in the hours after the alleged attack that no members of their team were harmed and that all eggs, embryos and other materials remained intact.
The scene remained blocked off as of 6 a.m. Sunday as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. Stay with KTLA for details.