At least 16 people were injured after a massive explosion shook a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) training facility in Irvine, California during training.
The explosion echoed across the Jerry Crowe Regional Tactical Training Facility in Irvine shortly before 1pm, KTLA5 reported quoting the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD).
The explosion happened as the OCSD Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team was busy in a joint training exercise with a bomb squad, authorities said.
As a result of the blast, 16 members of the SWAT Team were injured, 15 of whom were transported by ambulances to local hospitals for treatment while one person was able to self-transport.
While the exact nature of everyone’s injuries is unknown, KTLA5 reported that some members suffered non-life-threatening wounds to the legs and back, with one person requiring surgery.
Additionally, at least 13 people were experiencing dizziness and ringing in the ears. However, no deaths have been reported.
Authorities reported that a canister exploded during an annual joint training exercise. The small building where the explosion occurred was cordoned off by police tape and the exact trigger remains unclear.
“We do have two members of our SWAT Team who are cross-trained as paramedics and they were able to provide assistance immediately,” authorities said.
The explosion at Irvine FBI training facility, located at the former El Toro Marine Corps air base grounds, will be investigated by the OCSD, along with the FBI.
