In a significant development in the investigation of the recent bombing at a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, federal authorities have arrested a man at JFK Airport in New York. The individual, identified as Daniel Park, 32, from Kent, Washington, is alleged to have provided bomb parts to the primary suspect responsible for the attack, which occurred last month. Sources familiar with the case disclosed that Park was detained around 5 p.m. last night and is expected to appear in a Brooklyn federal courtroom on Wednesday afternoon, facing charges related to the Palm Springs attack.
The arrest of Daniel Park was confirmed by two sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case. The U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles and the head of the city's FBI office are scheduled to hold a press conference at 9 a.m. on Wednesday to announce further developments in the investigation. Bill Essayli, the leading federal prosecutor in Los Angeles, has stated that his office, in collaboration with the FBI, is spearheading the investigation into this incident, which has been classified as domestic terrorism.
The bombing took place on May 17 at the American Reproductive Centers in Palm Springs, resulting in the death of the primary suspect, Guy Edward Bartkus, and injuring at least four other individuals. The FBI has characterized the Palm Springs blast as “probably the largest bombing scene that we’ve had in Southern California,” surpassing the 2018 bombing of a day spa in Aliso Viejo. Reports indicate that the explosion was powerful enough to damage buildings several blocks away, with investigators noting that Bartkus used a substantial amount of explosives, which was so extensive that it shredded his remains.
Law enforcement sources have revealed that authorities recovered explosive materials from Bartkus' residence and noted his adeptness in assembling explosive devices. They have also highlighted Bartkus’ background as a longtime rocket builder. Investigators are currently scrutinizing how he acquired such a large cache of bomb materials, further intensifying the focus on Park’s involvement.
FBI investigators and law enforcement sources have characterized Bartkus, 25, as harboring antinatalist ideologies. This conclusion stems from social media posts and other online materials linked to him. In these public posts, Bartkus expressed views arguing that procreation without the consent of the unborn is both unethical and unjustifiable, particularly in a world facing significant environmental challenges, violence, and overpopulation.
The online footprint that authorities are examining includes a website seemingly dedicated to the Palm Springs bombing. This site features a 30-minute recording that was uploaded around the time of the explosion and promises a video of the blast that has yet to be released. Additionally, there are YouTube videos under a pseudonym associated with Bartkus, as well as discussions on Reddit and a suicide forum. In these platforms, Bartkus shared his feelings of despair regarding the death of a close friend, Sophie, who was a vocal advocate for radical feminism, veganism, and intentional suicide. Sophie was tragically killed in April, reportedly shot in the head by her partner, who claimed he acted at her request.
As the investigation continues, federal authorities are working diligently to piece together the connections and motives behind this tragic incident, emphasizing the need for public awareness and vigilance against domestic terrorism.
