Palm Springs IVF Clinic Bombing: FBI Identifies Attacker, Links Incident to Extremist Writings

The FBI has identified Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, of 29 Palms as the primary suspect in the Palm Springs vehicle explosion

Authorities have identified the man behind the deadly car bombing outside a Palm Springs fertility clinic as 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus. The FBI’s Los Angeles field office confirmed Bartkus as the suspect in the explosion, which occurred on Saturday, May 17, and resulted in his death along with injuries to four others. The blast also caused significant damage to nearby buildings.

The explosion, described by Palm Springs police as an “intentional act of violence,” occurred outside the American Reproductive Centers (ARC) located at 1199 N. Canyon. The facility offers fertility services such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg freezing.

The damaged front of the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic stands following a bomb blast on May 17, 2025 in Palm Springs, California

Federal investigators revealed that Bartkus left behind disturbing online writings which supported “nihilistic ideations.” Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, Akil Davis, stated on Sunday, May 18, that the writings suggested the IVF clinic was intentionally targeted. “This was a targeted attack against the IVF facility. Make no mistake: we are treating this as an intentional act of terrorism,” Davis said.

An online website allegedly linked to Bartkus included ominous content predicting a bombing at a fertility clinic and referenced a desire to “sterilize this planet of the disease of life,” according to authorities. The FBI noted that these materials are still under investigation.

The damaged front of the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic stands following a bomb blast on May 17, 2025 in Palm Springs, California

The explosion occurred at approximately 11 a.m., less than a mile from downtown Palm Springs. The force of the blast shattered windows of multiple nearby businesses and triggered a swift emergency response. It remains unclear whether Bartkus intended to die in the explosion or if his death was incidental.

Following the attack, ARC issued a statement expressing sorrow: “This morning, an unexpected and tragic incident occurred outside our Palm Springs facility when a vehicle exploded in the parking lot near our building. We are heartbroken to learn that this event claimed a life and caused injuries, and our deepest condolences go out to the individuals and families affected.”

Despite the damage, all embryos stored at the facility were preserved, according to FBI officials.