Authorities have identified Guy Edward Bartkus from Twentynine Palms as the suspect linked to an explosion at a reproductive health clinic in Palm Springs. Bartkus was found near a charred vehicle close to the clinic site.
Akil Davis, head of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, confirmed at a news briefing that investigators are scrutinising writings left by Bartkus, which may provide insight into his motivations. The writings have been described as “anti pro-life,” suggesting a nihilistic viewpoint and reflecting a belief that the world should not be populated. Davis characterised the incident as a planned act of terrorism targeting the in vitro fertilisation (IVF) facility.
The explosion resulted in Bartkus’s death and injured four others; however, all embryos at the clinic were reported to have been saved. Davis remarked on the significant impact of the bombing, noting that it was likely the largest bombing scene in Southern California to date. In light of the situation, authorities are conducting a search in Twentynine Palms as part of the ongoing investigation.
Bartkus was also reported to have attempted to document the explosion, but the video did not upload successfully. The blast obliterated the single-storey American Reproductive Centers clinic, although the clinic’s staff escaped unharmed, largely due to the fortunate timing of no patients being present at that moment, as conveyed by Dr Maher Abdallah, the clinic’s director.
Davis emphasised the seriousness of the incident, stating, “Make no mistake: we are treating this as an intentional act of terrorism.” The implications of this attack raise concerns about safety and the motivations surrounding reproductive health services in the region.