Explosion at LA Training Facility Kills Three Deputies
Three deputies of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department were killed and another was seriously injured in a powerful explosion during a training session on Friday morning. The incident took place at the Biscailuz Center in East Los Angeles, which houses the department’s bomb squad training unit.
Accidental Detonation of Recovered Device
Preliminary reports suggest that the deputies were handling a recovered explosive device believed to be safe when it suddenly detonated. The blast occurred around 7:30 am local time and caused significant damage to the training facility and surrounding equipment.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a massive boom followed by plumes of smoke rising from the building. Nearby staff rushed to the scene, but the explosion had already claimed lives. The injured deputy was transported to a nearby hospital and remains in critical condition.
Worst Single-Day Casualty in Department History
Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed that this was the most deadly training-related incident in the department’s history. The three fallen deputies collectively served over seven decades in law enforcement. “These were highly skilled professionals committed to public safety. Their loss is immeasurable,” Luna said.
Federal and Local Agencies Launch Investigation
Federal agencies including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have joined local law enforcement in investigating the cause of the explosion. Authorities are focusing on whether there was a lapse in safety protocols or a misjudgment regarding the nature of the device.
Training activities at the facility have been suspended pending a full safety review.
Leaders Mourn Loss, Order Safety Review
California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass offered condolences and pledged support to the affected families. Flags have been lowered across government buildings in tribute.
Meanwhile, the sheriff’s department has launched an internal safety audit to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
