Three Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies were killed and another was injured Friday in an explosion at a department training facility in East Los Angeles, according to multiple reports from the scene.
The blast was reported at 7:25 a.m. in the 1000 block of North Eastern Avenue, according to the Sheriff’s Information Bureau, which did not immediately confirm the deaths. Multiple broadcast outlets and the Los Angeles Times reported three deaths.
The deputies were part of the sheriff’s Arson/Explosives Detail, according to Fox11.
The Times said the blast was at the Biscauluz Training Center, which serves the sheriff’s Special Enforcement Bureau and Arson/Explosives Detail.
At least two reports from the scene indicated that three bodies were visible at the location.
Los Angeles County Supervisors Hilda L. Solis and Kathryn Barger both expressed sorrow and support following the explosion. Solis said she was deeply saddened by the loss and is in contact with Sheriff Robert Luna as the investigation continues. Barger also expressed sympathy and said her thoughts are with the department and victims’ families.