FBI Identifies Suspect in Palm Springs Fertility Clinic Bombing: Latest Updates as of Monday, May 19, 11AM

Update as of Monday, May 19, 11AM

We continue our coverage of the devastating bombing that struck a Palm Springs fertility clinic on Saturday, now officially classified by the FBI as an act of domestic terrorism. The suspect, who died in the explosion, has been identified as 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus of 29 Palms.

NBC Palm Springs digital reporter Thalia Hayden was on scene this morning and confirmed that FBI agents are still collecting evidence near the blast site, calling it the largest bombing in Southern California in recent history. Investigators have cordoned off the area at North Indian Canyon Drive and Tachiva Road, where a Mobile Command Center remains active.

Authorities say Bartkus left behind a manifesto explicitly threatening a fertility clinic and had attempted to live stream the bombing. A search of his 29 Palms residence uncovered explosive materials and documents revealing radical ideologies. Though not affiliated with the military, Bartkus was known as an experienced rocket builder.

Police Chief Andy Mills stated, “I’m very confident the suspect acted alone at the scene,” but emphasized the need to determine if anyone assisted him online. Officials are now asking for the public’s help in tracing Bartkus’ movements within Palm Springs the morning of the explosion. He was driving a silver 2010 Ford Fusion with California plates 8HWS848 between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. Saturday. If you saw this vehicle, you are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or report information at FBI.gov/palmspringsvehicleexplosion.

The explosion caused extensive damage across Indian Canyon Drive. Desert Regional Medical Center remains open but has closed its main entrance; visitors should use Via Morales Day for eastside access. The DAP Health Palm Springs Family Clinic was also impacted and is currently closed pending a structural assessment.

Images released by Chief Mills show FBI Agent Chris Meltzer and Assistant Fire Chief Greg Lyle risking their lives to protect embryo incubators and recover patient records from the damaged clinic, actions being praised as heroic.

This remains an active investigation. We will bring you further updates and personal stories from those affected on NBCPalmSprings.com and during our 5, 6, and 11 p.m. broadcasts.

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