Several Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies were rushed to hospital after a controlled detonation unexpectedly escalated during a routine bomb disposal training exercise.
The incident occurred at the sheriff department's dedicated training facility, where specialised units regularly practise high-risk scenarios. Witnesses reported hearing a massive explosion followed by emergency responders scrambling to the scene.
Emergency Response Activated
Paramedics treated multiple personnel for injuries described as moderate. While officials haven't released specific details about the nature of the injuries, all affected deputies are expected to make full recoveries.
'This was exactly why we train - to prepare for the unexpected,' a department spokesperson stated. 'While unfortunate, incidents like this help us improve our safety protocols.'
Training Safety Under Review
The explosion has prompted an immediate review of training procedures. Bomb squad exercises involve some of the most dangerous scenarios law enforcement personnel face, requiring precise execution and multiple safety checks.
Key questions being examined include:
- The type of explosive material used
- Safety buffer zone measurements
- Equipment failure possibilities
- Protocol deviations
This marks the first major incident at the facility since its opening five years ago. The training centre was specifically designed to provide realistic scenarios for explosive ordnance disposal teams.