Palm Springs IVF Clinic Bombing: Suspect Identified as 25-Year-Old Guy Edward Bartkus
Palm Springs, CA — Authorities have identified Guy Edward Bartkus, a 25-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms, California, as the individual responsible for the devastating car bombing outside the American Reproductive Centers (ARC) fertility clinic in Palm Springs on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The explosion resulted in Bartkus’s death and injured four others. The FBI has classified the incident as an “intentional act of terrorism.”
The Incident
The bombing occurred just before 11:00 a.m. local time, when a vehicle parked outside the ARC clinic detonated, causing significant damage to the facility and surrounding structures. The blast was powerful enough to be felt over a mile away, shattering windows and scattering debris across a wide area.
Fortunately, no patients were present at the clinic at the time of the explosion, and all stored embryos remained unharmed. Dr. Maher Abdallah, who operates the clinic, expressed relief that the incident did not result in more casualties.
Suspect’s Background and Motive
Investigations revealed that Bartkus held nihilistic and anti-natalist beliefs, opposing human procreation on the grounds that individuals should not be born without their consent. In a 30-minute audio recording discovered by authorities, Bartkus stated, “I’m angry that I exist, and nobody got my consent to bring me here,” explaining his rationale for targeting the IVF clinic.
Bartkus attempted to livestream the attack, but the video was never uploaded. Authorities found additional weapons and explosive materials at his residence, prompting evacuations and controlled detonations in the area.
Community and Official Response
The attack has sent shockwaves through the Palm Springs community and beyond. California Governor Gavin Newsom and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the violence, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding reproductive healthcare facilities.
The FBI, in collaboration with local law enforcement, continues to investigate the incident, examining Bartkus’s online activities and any potential connections to extremist groups. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips online.
Moving Forward
Despite the damage, the American Reproductive Centers clinic plans to resume full operations on Monday. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by reproductive health providers and the need for continued vigilance and support from the community and law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the factors that led to this tragic event and preventing similar occurrences in the future.