Local News
Three deputies killed after explosion at Biscailuz Center Training Academy in East Los Angeles
No other individuals were injured in the explosion.
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.
Local News
Three Killed in Highway 61 Crash Near Walls, Mississippi; Victims Identified as Latasha Dodson, Eddie Dodson, and Tamenshia Ford
WALLS, Mississippi — Three people were killed in a serious collision Wednesday evening near U.S. Highway 61 and Church Road in Walls, leaving multiple families grieving and a community mourning the sudden loss of their loved ones.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 8:04 p.m. and involved a 2021 Honda Accord and another vehicle driven by 27-year-old Da’Quarius M. Burton of Memphis, Tennessee.
Authorities identified the three people who died inside the Honda Accord as:
- Latasha N. Dodson, 37, of Horn Lake
- Eddie L. Dodson, 41, of Byhalia
- Tamenshia R. Ford, 32, of Horn Lake
All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash also left two people injured. Da’Quarius M. Burton, who was driving the other vehicle, survived the collision, as did a fourth occupant of the Honda Accord whose identity has not yet been released.
Both survivors were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Officials have not provided an update on their conditions.
The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
The tragedy has also deeply affected local law enforcement and public service communities. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that one of its juvenile detention officers was among those who died in the crash. Another employee was seriously injured.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office remembered its fallen employee as a respected and beloved member of the team who demonstrated kindness, compassion, and dedication to the young people entrusted to their care.
The department also recognized the lasting difference the employee made through their work and the positive influence they had on others.
Officials have not publicly identified which of the three victims worked for the Sheriff’s Office.
The Walls Police Department also confirmed that one of its patrol officers was involved in the collision. However, the department has not clarified the officer’s condition or released additional information about the circumstances surrounding their involvement.
The crash has therefore brought grief and concern to several public safety agencies, including the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office and the Walls Police Department.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash near Highway 61 and Church Road. Authorities have not released a determination about what caused the vehicles to collide.
Further information may become available as investigators review the circumstances of the incident and complete their work.
The deaths of Latasha N. Dodson, Eddie L. Dodson, and Tamenshia R. Ford represent an enormous loss for their families, friends, and everyone who knew them.
Three individuals from different communities have now been lost in a single devastating incident. Their loved ones are left to face the difficult days ahead while holding on to the memories they shared.
The loss has also been felt by colleagues and members of the local public safety community, particularly those mourning the juvenile detention officer remembered for compassion and dedication to young people.
During this painful time, thoughts are with the families of all three victims, the injured survivors, and the employees of the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office and Walls Police Department.
May Latasha N. Dodson, Eddie L. Dodson, and Tamenshia R. Ford rest in peace.