A tragic explosion at a Los Angeles law enforcement training facility has left three veteran deputies dead. This incident marks the largest loss of life for the LA County Sheriff’s Department since 1857.
Authorities say the deputies were working with two military-style grenades when one of them detonated. The second grenade is currently missing. Sheriff Robert Luna reported that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the incident. They’ve thoroughly searched the area, including vehicles, offices, and the gym, but have not located the missing grenade. “We have looked at everything we could,” Luna stated, assuring the public that the area has been secure.
The grenades were seized from an apartment complex in Santa Monica just a day before the explosion. Initially, detectives believed the devices to be inert after conducting X-rays. However, those protocols are now under scrutiny as the sheriff calls for a full review of the handling of explosives by his team. “From now on, we will treat all explosive devices as live,” he added.
The three deputies who lost their lives were Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn, with years of dedicated service between 19 and 33 years. Their deaths have sparked grief and discussions within the community regarding safety measures in handling such dangerous materials.
As the investigation continues, the ATF plans to release a final report in September. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face every day and the importance of strict safety protocols in dealing with explosives.
For further information, you can visit the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
