Inset: This image provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigations features Guy Edward Bartkus (FBI via AP). Damage to a building can be seen following an explosion in Palm Springs, California, on Saturday, May 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Eric Thayer).
Investigators in California identified the man who allegedly blew up a fertility clinic in Palm Springs on Saturday morning.
Authorities suspect that 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus was killed in the blast. Officials arrived at the scene of the explosion near the American Reproductive Centers-Palm Springs just before 11 a.m. on Saturday. The “deliberate act of violence” caused considerable damage to multiple buildings, with significant impact felt several blocks away, according to police statements.
No one other than Bartkus died but four others were injured, per the FBI.
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“The individual had nihilistic thoughts, and this was a focused attack,” Akil Davis, the assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, informed reporters on Sunday. “We suspect that he was trying to livestream the incident, and that aspect is being included in our investigation.”
Multiple reports say investigators are keying in on Bartkus’ social media posts that described himself as a “pro-mortalist,” meaning he opposed birth without consent.
The Los Angeles Times, citing unnamed law enforcement sources, reported Bartkus is believed to have want to wage a “war against pro-lifers” and wanted to target a fertilization clinic. Bartkus was apparently radicalized about the recent death of a friend, the Times reported.
Davis did not comment on a potential motive but said “make no mistake, this is an intentional act of terrorism.”
“This is probably one of the largest bombing investigations we’ve had in Southern California,” he added.
Cops also found an AK-47 and AR style inside the exploded car, per the Times.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said the investigation remains ongoing.
“We are working to learn more, but let me be clear: the Trump administration understands that women and mothers are the heartbeat of America,” she wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “Violence against a fertility clinic is unforgivable.”
In a Facebook post, Dr. Maher Abdallah who runs the clinic said none of his staff was hurt or injured and all eggs, embryos and reproductive materials remained intact.
“Our mission has always been to help build families, and in times like these, we are reminded of just how fragile and precious life is,” Abdallah wrote. “In the face of this tragedy, we remain committed to creating hope—because we believe that healing begins with community, compassion, and care.”
On Saturday night, law enforcement raided Bartkus’ home in Twentynine Palms and evacuated nearby homes in case he left behind any explosives, per local ABC affiliate KABC.
