The recent explosion that claimed the lives of three Los Angeles County sheriff’s detectives has left a profound impact on both the community and law enforcement agencies across the nation. Described as the “best of the best,” these courageous men served their community with unwavering commitment and honor. The fallen detectives have been identified as Dets. Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn, who collectively dedicated 74 years to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department.
The tragic incident occurred while the detectives were handling ordinance at the Biscailuz Center Training Academy in East L.A. This devastating blast marks the agency’s deadliest event in over 160 years, sending shock waves through the law enforcement community. The detectives leave behind not only grieving colleagues and friends but also 16 children, highlighting the personal loss felt by many. Sheriff Robert Luna expressed deep sorrow, stating, “These heroes represented the best of our department, exemplifying courage, integrity, and selfless service. This is not only a heartbreaking loss for their families, but for all of us.”
On the day of the explosion, the three detectives were responding to a call from the Santa Monica Police Department to assist in the removal of explosives from an apartment complex located in the 800 block of Bay Street. This complex is now a focal point in an ongoing investigation that may lead to negligent homicide charges against the individual responsible for the hazardous device that caused the tragedy. Both the FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department’s bomb squad are actively involved in the investigation, while the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is set to conduct a federal inquiry into the explosion's cause.
Detective William Osborn joined the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department in 1992 and quickly became known for his deep passion for investigations and his leadership among peers. In 2019, he became part of the agency’s elite special enforcement bureau, where he was considered a “tenured bomb technician” who could be counted on for difficult challenges. Osborn leaves behind his wife, Detective Shannon Rincon, four sons, and two daughters. His career included a range of roles, from the Men’s Central Jail to the Pico Rivera and Industry stations, and he handled over a hundred cases annually, particularly focused on recovering stolen vehicles.
Detective Victor Lemus, who joined the Sheriff’s Department in 2003, was surrounded by a family legacy of law enforcement. He leaves behind his wife, Detective Nancy Lemus, and three daughters. His family ties extend to his three sisters, all of whom serve in the department, and his brother-in-law, Sergeant Robert Catalan. Lemus was not only a skilled investigator but also a dedicated athlete, participating in the challenging Baker to Vegas relay race. His career began at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility, followed by a transfer to the Century Station. In 2017, he joined the special enforcement bureau, where he served as a K-9 handler and later as an arson and explosives investigator.
Detective Joshua Kelley-Eklund, who joined the Sheriff’s Department in 2006, was renowned for his exceptional skills as a field training officer. He played a crucial role in solving complex crimes and aiding in the arrests of murder suspects. Kelley-Eklund is survived by his wife, Jessica Eklund, and their seven children. His career spanned various roles, starting at the Pitchess Detention Center, before serving at the Lennox and South Los Angeles Stations. In 2016, he was promoted to detective at the narcotics bureau before joining the special enforcement bureau as an arson and explosives investigator in 2022.
As the community mourns the loss of these dedicated detectives, details regarding memorial services will be announced in the coming days. The legacy of Detectives Kelley-Eklund, Lemus, and Osborn will forever be remembered as they exemplified the values of courage, integrity, and dedication within the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
