Nihilistic Beliefs in 25 YO Suspect Motivated Palm Spring Fertility Clinic Bombing, Says FBI

The FBI has identified the suspect in Saturday’s bombing at a Palm Springs fertility clinic. He was 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus from Twentynine Palms, California. The area is home to a large U.S. Marine Corps base, about an hour from Palm Springs.

Law enforcement sources say Bartkus left behind writings or recordings. In them, he expressed opposition to bringing people into the world without consent. Investigators believe this motive has a link to the attack.

The explosion came from a large vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. The blast could be felt more than a mile away. Buildings around the clinic sustained heavy damage.

Largest Bombing Investigated By FBI in Southern California

FBI officials believe Bartkus died in the explosion. His body was found near the blast site. The car used in the bombing was a silver 2010 Ford Fusion sedan.

Authorities said Bartkus was not on any FBI watchlists. The bombing is now the largest the agency has ever investigated in Southern California. Moreover, officials also suspect Bartkus may have tried to livestream the attack.

Investigators say Bartkus drove from Twentynine Palms to Palm Springs with the bomb in his car. His father told CBS Los Angeles they had not spoken in over ten years. He said his son changed after moving away.

The bomb used in the attack resembled devices seen in conflict zones. Experts believe the construction of the device required planning and technical skill. The damage it caused stretched more than a mile and a half from the explosion site.

The FBI and local authorities continue to investigate the incident. Meanwhile, they are reviewing the suspect’s background, digital history, and possible motives.

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