Palm Springs, CA – Federal authorities have released the first photo of Guy Edward Bartkus, a 25-year-old man from Twentynine Palms, California, who has been identified as the sole suspect in the devastating bombing that occurred Saturday outside a fertility clinic in Palm Springs. The incident, which has shocked the quiet desert community and drawn national attention, left four people injured and caused extensive damage to the facility.

According to investigators, Bartkus died in the explosion, which occurred just after 9:00 a.m. at the Desert Bloom Fertility Center, a prominent reproductive health facility located on the outskirts of downtown Palm Springs. Surveillance footage and witness testimony indicate that Bartkus approached the building alone and was carrying what authorities now believe was an improvised explosive device (IED). The device detonated shortly after he arrived at the scene, killing him instantly.

The blast shattered windows, sent debris flying across the parking lot, and caused a partial collapse of the clinic’s front entrance. Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes, transporting four injured victims—three clinic staff members and one patient—to nearby hospitals. All are expected to survive, though two remain in critical condition.

Authorities with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have been working in conjunction with local law enforcement to determine the motive behind the attack. While officials have not disclosed a definitive motive, early indications suggest that Bartkus may have had personal or ideological grievances related to the clinic’s work.

“This was a deliberate act of violence,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Dana Whitmore, speaking at a press conference Sunday morning. “We are actively investigating all leads, including the suspect’s background, communications, and possible connections to extremist groups or individuals.”

According to public records and social media accounts now under investigation, Bartkus had lived in the high desert town of Twentynine Palms for several years. He had no prior criminal record, but neighbors described him as increasingly reclusive in recent months. One former acquaintance described Bartkus as “troubled” and noted that he had recently expressed strong opinions about government oversight and biomedical ethics, though nothing that hinted at violent tendencies.

The release of Bartkus’s photo is part of a broader appeal to the public for information. Investigators are particularly interested in his activities in the days and weeks leading up to the bombing. “If you knew Guy Bartkus, had contact with him, or noticed anything suspicious, we urge you to come forward,” said Palm Springs Police Chief Miguel Hernandez.

As the investigation continues, the local community is grappling with the aftermath of the attack. The Desert Bloom Fertility Center remains closed while structural engineers assess the full extent of the damage. In the meantime, patients are being referred to nearby facilities, and counselors have been made available to both staff and clients affected by the tragedy.

City officials have emphasized their commitment to transparency and safety, vowing to enhance security protocols for local medical facilities and public buildings. “We will not allow fear to take root in our community,” said Palm Springs Mayor Judith Spencer. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire staff at Desert Bloom.”

Authorities have stressed that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. The FBI and ATF continue to process the scene and analyze evidence recovered from Bartkus’s vehicle and residence, hoping to piece together a clearer picture of what led to this tragic act of violence.

As more details emerge, the Palm Springs community and the broader public remain united in mourning, resilience, and a firm demand for answers.