A massive explosion at an FBI training site in Irvine, California, injured 16 people on Wednesday, media outlets reported. The incident occurred at the Jerry Crowe Regional Tactical Training Facility, according to KTLA5, citing the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. During a routine exercise involving the SWAT Team and a bomb squad, the explosion occurred.
This event led to injuries among 16 SWAT members; 15 were taken to hospitals by ambulance, and one managed to go independently. Injuries varied, with some sustaining non-critical harm to legs and back, and one required surgery, KTLA5 added. Thirteen individuals reported dizziness and hearing issues, but no fatalities were noted.
The cause was identified as a canister blast during an annual exercise, leaving the area sealed for investigation. The site, situated on former military grounds, will undergo scrutiny by local authorities and the FBI, aiming to determine the explosion’s cause. Two SWAT members promptly provided Emergency medical aid with paramedic training, underscoring the swift response to the accident.