LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Three veteran members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Arson/Explosives Detail were tragically killed Friday morning in an explosion at the department’s training facility in the City Terrace area of East Los Angeles.

The fatal incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. at the Biscailuz Training Academy, located in the 1000 block of North Eastern Avenue.

The site is home to several of LASD’s specialized units, including the Bomb Squad and Special Enforcement Bureau.

At a press conference later that morning, L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed the loss of the three deputies, calling them “heroes” and “the best of the best.” He noted that between them, the fallen personnel had served the department for a combined 74 years.

Their identities are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

“This is the worst single loss-of-life event in the department since 1857,” Sheriff Luna stated, visibly emotional. “These individuals dedicated their lives to protecting others, and today, we mourn their ultimate sacrifice.”

Preliminary information suggests that the explosion was accidental. Law enforcement sources indicated that the device involved had been recovered earlier during a seemingly routine bomb squad response.

It had been deemed inert and was transported back to the facility for further handling when it unexpectedly detonated.

No other individuals were injured in the explosion.

The scene was secured by the Los Angeles Police Department Bomb Squad, which rendered any remaining devices safe. The LAPD Bomb Squad, LASD Homicide Bureau, FBI, and ATF are all assisting in the investigation.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed the city’s support and praised the swift response of emergency services. “This tragic incident underscores the danger our law enforcement officers face every day,” she said.

Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed and is coordinating through the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. In a statement, his office said they are in close communication with LASD and are continuing to monitor developments.

Numerous local officials offered condolences and support:

Supervisor Kathryn Barger said, “I am heartbroken by this tragedy. My thoughts are with the brave men and women of the Sheriff’s Department. We stand with them and their families during this incredibly difficult time.”

Supervisor Hilda Solis expressed, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life. My heart is with the families, friends, and colleagues of the three individuals who died in what appears to be a devastating explosion.”

Supervisor Janice Hahn added, “This is an extraordinarily painful day for LA County. I am offering my full support to Sheriff Luna and his department as they investigate what went wrong. We must learn from this tragedy and ensure it never happens again.”

The FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are on scene. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi posted a message of support on X, saying, “Our federal agents are at the scene and we are working to learn more. Please pray for the families of the sheriff’s deputies killed.”

The investigation into the exact cause of the explosion remains ongoing.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.