Explosion at FBI Training Facility in Irvine Injures Sixteen

An explosion at an FBI training facility in Irvine, California, resulted in injuries to sixteen individuals on Wednesday, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD). The incident occurred shortly before 1 p.m. on Magazine Road, where deputies were utilizing the facility for a joint training exercise involving the OCSD’s Bomb Squad and SWAT teams. Officials reported that the explosion took place inside a small building on the FBI’s property, leading to various injuries among the participants.

The majority of the injuries were caused by the noise of the blast, with thirteen people suffering from dizziness and ear pain. Additionally, two individuals sustained leg injuries, one requiring surgical intervention, and another person experienced a back injury that will not necessitate surgery. Sergeant Frank Gonzalez of the OCSD expressed concern over the incident, particularly highlighting a severe leg injury suffered by a SWAT team member. Fifteen victims were transported to nearby hospitals by Orange County Fire Authority paramedics, while one individual managed to self-transport.

The FBI has taken the lead in investigating the explosion, which occurred during a training session involving a device that was part of the exercise. Despite the incident, Gonzalez assured that all participants were equipped with tactical gear and that medical plans were immediately activated to ensure the safety of all members involved. The investigation is ongoing, with aerial footage showing investigators in protective suits examining the scene, including a bunker and robotic equipment.

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