Local News
Massive Explosion Near Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs Shakes City
Palm Springs, CA — A deadly explosion rocked central Palm Springs late Saturday morning, killing at least one person and causing widespread damage to a fertility clinic located near Desert Regional Medical Center.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the incident, which has shaken the local community.
The explosion occurred just before 11:00 a.m. at American Reproductive Centers, a fertility and IVF clinic situated at 1199 N. Indian Canyon Drive, near the intersection of East Tachevah Drive.
According to Palm Springs police, the blast originated outside the building and may have involved a vehicle, though the precise cause has not yet been confirmed.
Lt. William Hutchinson of the Palm Springs Police Department confirmed at the scene that at least one fatality had occurred.
“Everything is on the table at this point, including whether this may have been an intentional act,” Hutchinson stated. “We are working closely with local, state, and federal authorities to determine the nature of this explosion.”
Witnesses reported hearing a powerful blast that could be felt up to two miles away. Footage from nearby businesses and passersby captured thick, black smoke rising from the scene and windows blown out in surrounding buildings.
Emergency crews responded rapidly, and by noon, the area remained an active scene, with multiple fire and police units arriving to secure the site and aid potential victims.
Images circulating on social media show the charred remains of a vehicle near the clinic.
One video appears to show a body lying near the blast site, which aligns with police confirmation of a fatality.
The office most heavily impacted by the explosion belongs to Dr. Maher Abdallah, who operates out of the affected American Reproductive Centers facility.
While the focus remains on emergency response and investigation, online reviews of the clinic have recently drawn scrutiny, with some critical feedback appearing to receive direct — and at times unprofessional — responses from the physician himself. However, no connection between these online interactions and the explosion has been made.
Palm Springs Police have closed North Indian Canyon Drive between Vista Chino and Alejo Road, and are urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency responders to conduct their work.
As of Saturday afternoon, no other injuries had been officially confirmed, though authorities noted that the situation remains fluid and evolving.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending family notification.
Investigators from the Palm Springs Police Department, Riverside County Fire Department, and federal explosive units are working collaboratively to determine the cause and scope of the explosion. A press briefing is expected once additional information becomes available.
Residents and business owners nearby are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or surveillance footage to police.
SURF CITY, N.C. — Emergency crews are battling a large multi-structure fire in Surf City that has already destroyed at least three homes and a large boat, according to reports from the scene and emergency radio traffic.
The blaze reportedly began near 5th Street, directly across from The Trailer Bar, and quickly spread to multiple nearby residences and a docked vessel.
Witnesses described seeing towering flames and heavy smoke visible from several blocks away as firefighters worked to contain the rapidly expanding fire.
Scanner reports indicate that multiple fire departments and emergency agencies from surrounding areas have been dispatched to assist Surf City Fire and Rescue in controlling the blaze and preventing it from spreading further.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire or whether there are any injuries.
Residents in the area were urged to avoid 5th Street and surrounding roads to allow emergency personnel full access to the scene.
This is a developing story, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available from Surf City officials and emergency services.