Fatal Explosion Outside California Fertility Clinic Was an 'Intentional Act of Violence,' Police Say

One person was killed and several buildings were “severely” damaged in an explosion outside a fertility clinic in California.

“The blast appears to be an intentional act of violence and the blast extends for blocks with several buildings damaged, some severely,” the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) said in a press release shared on Facebook several hours after the incident on Saturday, May 17. 

Police also said the blast originated from a “vehicle explosion at 1199 N. Canyon” — which is the address of the American Reproductive Centers (ARC), a facility that performs services including IVF and egg freezing, according to its website.

The PSPD said in the release that local authorities are currently working closely with the FBI to determine next steps in the investigation, and that the identity of the single fatality is not yet known.

“The incident appears to be isolated,” police added.

PEOPLE reached out to the Palm Springs Police Department for comment May 17 but did not receive an immediate response.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE’s free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

The New York Times reported that the explosion occurred at about 11 a.m. local time, less than a mile from the city’s downtown area. The windows of a number of local businesses were blown out entirely, per the outlet. 

“I was just in my shop waiting for clients, and all of a sudden it felt like a big explosion,” Claudio Chavez, who works at a nearby upholstery store, told the Times. 

“It took out our window. I just saw a bunch of smoke,” he added.

Scott Pastorius, who was four blocks away in his vacation home at the time of the explosion, told the outlet that he initially thought it was an “earthquake,” but then realized “it was too intense.” 

“The whole house rattled, and then the glass in the door I saw flexing,” he said.

In a statement on X, California Governor Gavin Newsom shared that he had been “briefed” on the incident and said that he and his wife “are keeping everyone affected in our hearts.”

“The state is working closely with local and federal authorities as the investigation unfolds. Please avoid the area,” the politician added.

The ARC released a statement about the incident on its Facebook page on May 17.

“This morning, an unexpected and tragic incident occurred outside our Palm Springs facility when a vehicle exploded in the parking lot near our building. 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,” the statement said.

“ARC will be fully operational on Monday morning, and our team is here to answer any concerns you may have. We appreciate the incredible support from our patients and local community, as well as the swift action of Palm Springs Police, Fire, and emergency responders. This moment has shaken us — but it has not stopped us. We will continue to serve with strength, love, and the hope that brings new life into the world,” the organization added.

A suspect has not been identified at this time, per authorities.