On the 17th of this month (local time), a car explosion occurred at an infertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, and has been analyzed as a terrorist act committed by a man influenced by anti-natalist ideology.
NBC News reported on the 18th, citing two senior law enforcement officials briefed on the matter, that the incident appears to have been triggered by anti-natalist beliefs. Anti-natalism is a belief that human procreation is unethical and that people should not have children.
Akil Davis, deputy director of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, held a press conference stating that the identity of the suspect found near the exploded vehicle was confirmed as Guy Edward Bartkus, a 25-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms.
Investigators are analyzing social media posts and a 30-minute audio recording created by him, which are believed to support anti-natalist ideology. Deputy Director Davis stated, “The suspect held nihilistic beliefs, and the attack targeted the infertility clinic facility. We view this as a deliberate act of terrorism.”
He also mentioned that Bartkus attempted to livestream the bombing and had written a so-called ‘manifesto,’ which they are now investigating.
NBC reported that Bartkus had been dealing with depression and personal relationship issues. The explosion resulted in the death of the suspect, Bartkus, and injured four others.
Since the explosion occurred during the weekend when the clinic was not operating, it was reported that no hospital staff or patients were harmed.
The FBI has categorized this incident as a terrorist act and is currently investigating.
Palm Springs is a desert city located about two hours east of Los Angeles (LA) and is known for its luxury resorts and as a residence for famous celebrities.