A horrific explosion at a police training facility in East Los Angeles has claimed the lives of three experienced officers.
Three Officers Killed in Devastating Explosion at LA Training Facility
Three Officers Killed in Devastating Explosion at LA Training Facility
Tragedy strikes as bomb squad training leads to fatal blast, prompting federal investigation
Three officers tragically lost their lives in an explosion that rocked the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department (LASD) training facility on Friday. The incident occurred around 07:30 local time at the Biscailuz Center Academy, which is primarily known for housing specialized units, including a bomb squad and arson explosives detail.
While the precise cause of the explosion remains under investigation, LASD Sheriff Robert Luna characterized the event as "an isolated incident" and confirmed that there were no additional injuries reported. The three victims were highly regarded veterans of the department, each with between 19 to 33 years of service, and were part of the bomb squad team responsible for ensuring public safety. Their identities have not yet been disclosed as the department is prioritizing notifications to their families.
This devastating occurrence marks the most significant loss of life for the LASD in a single incident since it was established in 1857, according to Sheriff Luna. "We have to go back and investigate what happened from the very beginning," he explained, as authorities launched a thorough investigation with the assistance of the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Initial reports indicate that the explosion took place in the parking lot of the facility while officers were attempting to safely handle a grenade discovered in a Santa Monica garage just a day before. The grenade had been transported to the training site for proper disposal when the explosion occurred, as cited by police sources.
In response to the incident, the surrounding area has been evacuated and secured for ongoing investigations. California Governor Gavin Newsom has been kept informed and is closely monitoring the developments, with state resources on standby to assist. Local officials, including Kathryn Barger, Chief of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, expressed their condolences and concern, emphasizing their support for the impacted department during this troubling time.
The investigation continues as the LASD and federal agents work together to piece together the events leading to this tragic explosion.
