Scene Secured After 4 Hours — FBI and ATF Join Probe
It took over four hours for investigators to deem the scene safe, with federal agents from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) called in to assist.
While officials have not yet released the names of the fallen deputies, Sheriff Luna said he has personally met with two of the three families.
“Those were extremely difficult conversations,” he said, his voice breaking.
“This is the worst loss of life our department has faced in a single event since 1857.”
According to a law enforcement official who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, the working theory is that the incident may have been a tragic training accident, though a full investigation is underway.
Leaders React: “A Horrific Incident”
California Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the blast:
“This appears to be a horrific incident. Federal agents are on-site. Please pray for the families of the deputies lost today.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed that the Office of Emergency Services is working closely with the sheriff’s department, and members of the State Fire Marshal have also joined the probe at the request of the ATF.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass noted that arson experts from the LAFD and LAPD bomb squad are also assisting in the investigation.
Brotherhood Mourns the Fallen
Deputy Jason Zabala, a member of the department’s SWAT team, expressed heartbreak over the loss.
“These guys were legends in our ranks. When you take this job, you know it’s dangerous — but moments like this remind us just how real that danger is.”
This tragic event is under intense scrutiny and has sent shockwaves through law enforcement communities across the country. Authorities have not confirmed when further details will be released — but one thing is certain: the sacrifice of these three deputies will not be forgotten.