Explosion at FBI Training Center in Irvine Injures 16 [Irvine, CA]

IRVINE, CA (March 14, 2024) — An explosion at the Jerry Crowe Regional Tactical Training Facility in Irvine, California, resulted in injuries to sixteen individuals on Wednesday, as reported by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD). 

The incident occurred shortly before 1 p.m. during a joint exercise involving the department’s SWAT team and a bomb squad.

Fifteen of the injured SWAT team members were transported to a hospital by ambulance, while one managed to drive themselves for medical attention. The injuries reported include non-life-threatening wounds primarily to the legs and back, with at least one individual requiring surgical intervention. 

Symptoms of dizziness and ringing in the ears were noted among at least 13 of the victims. While the full extent of the injuries is still being assessed, there have been no fatalities reported.

The circumstances leading to the explosion, including the specifics of the device that detonated, are currently under investigation. The site of the explosion, within or near one of the facility’s buildings, was cordoned off for investigation, with helicopter footage showing a robot deployed outside the building amidst visible debris.

The training facility, located on the grounds of the former El Toro Marine Corps air base, is a hub for tactical training operations. Further details about the explosion and the condition of the injured are expected as investigations continue.