Explosion at LA County Sheriff’s Facility Leaves Multiple Deputies Dead

A deadly explosion at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Biscailuz Training Center early Friday morning claimed the lives of at least three deputies, according to law enforcement sources. Another individual sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, though their condition remains unclear. The blast occurred just before 7:30 a.m. at the center on Eastern Avenue, which houses specialized units such as the sheriff’s bomb squad and arson explosives detail. The site has since been cordoned off as officials continue to investigate the cause.

Ongoing Investigation and Emergency Response

Sources told the Los Angeles Times that the blast occurred while a bomb squad team was handling an explosive ordinance. The LAPD’s bomb squad joined the effort to secure the area, with additional support from FBI bomb technicians. According to spokesperson Laura Eimiller, the FBI is assisting in evaluating the site for any remaining threats. As a precaution, the area was evacuated while officials worked to ensure safety.

Witness Accounts Paint a Chaotic Scene

Employees at the facility described hearing a powerful boom and the sound of glass shattering shortly before 7:30 a.m. The explosion appeared to originate from the parking lot where bomb squad vehicles are stored. A sheriff’s SUV parked nearby had its windows blown out, and a large tarp was used to conceal the blast zone. Emergency personnel flooded the area, including a sheriff’s helicopter and multiple response teams, while civilian vehicles were promptly escorted from the lot.

History of Safety Concerns at Sheriff Facilities

The sheriff’s department has previously experienced dangerous incidents at its training sites. Over the past 12 years, four fires have been reported at mobile shooting ranges used for firearms training. In 2023, a fire at the men’s jail at Pitchess Detention Center left two deputies with third-degree burns. These incidents have raised concerns over the safety standards maintained at such facilities.

State and Federal Officials Respond

California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the explosion and confirmed via X that the state’s Office of Emergency Services is monitoring the situation and offering assistance. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi called the blast a “horrific incident” in her statement and noted that federal agents are on-site to support local efforts. “Please pray for the families of the sheriff’s deputies killed,” Bondi added, as the community reels from the tragic event.