At least three Los Angeles Sheriff’s deputies were killed in an explosion at a training center on Friday morning.
It is unclear what caused the explosion, which occurred at the LASD’s Biscailuz Center Training Academy at around 7:30am local time.
Sources told KTLA that all three deceased individuals were deputies. Their identities are not yet known, and it is not clear if there are any other injuries.
Aerial footage from the outlet showed an LASD vehicle with a shattered rear windshield, and a backpack could be seen on the ground nearby.
The blast occurred at a site that hosts the department’s special enforcement bureau and the arson explosive detail, which includes bomb squads. Sources told the LA Times that a bomb squad was moving explosives when the explosion occurred.
The area has been evacuated, and a large tarp could be seen covering the blast area.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said on social media: ‘I just spoke to [U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli] about what appears to be a horrific incident that killed at least three at a law enforcement training facility in Los Angeles.
‘Our federal agents are at the scene and we are working to learn more. Please pray for the families of the sheriff’s deputies killed.’
California Governor Gavin Newsom said through his office on X that he has been briefed on the situation and is offering ‘full state assistance.’
Bondi said in a follow-up statement that she had spoken with LA County Sheriff Robert Luna, and said she had deployed FBI and ATF agents to the scene.
‘Please pray for the entire Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department,’ Bondi said.
An employee at the training center reportedly said that they initially believed the explosion was an earthquake due to its force.
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger added in a statement: ‘I am heartbroken to hear of the terrible tragedy that has unfolded today at an L.A. County Sheriff’s Department facility.
‘I am closely tracking the situation as we learn more about what occurred and the condition of those affected. My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are with the brave men and women of the Sheriff’s Department during this difficult time.
‘We stand with them and their families as they navigate the hours and days ahead.’
This is a developing story and will be updated as information is confirmed.
