A devastating explosion occurred early Friday morning, July 18, at a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department training facility in East Los Angeles, resulting in multiple fatalities.
The blast took place around 7:30 a.m. at the Biscailuz Center Academy Training compound, which houses the department’s arson and explosives detail as well as its bomb squad, according to KTLA.
Preliminary reports indicate that at least three sheriff’s deputies were killed in the explosion, though authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties. Aerial footage from the scene showed extensive damage, including shattered windows, damaged sheriff’s vehicles, and debris scattered across the facility grounds. Several law enforcement units responded to the site, where a sheriff’s SUV with a shattered rear windshield was also seen.
While the official cause of the explosion is still under investigation, law enforcement sources told the Los Angeles Times that the department’s bomb squad had been handling explosives around the time of the incident. Witnesses reported seeing a backpack and explosives transport trucks near the blast site.
The total number of injuries or potential additional fatalities remains unclear as of now.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that she had spoken with LA County Sheriff Robert Luna and U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli to coordinate federal assistance.
“We have FBI and ATF agents on the ground to support,” Bondi posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Please pray for the entire Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.”
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as officials continue to assess the situation.
