Irvine, California – A routine joint training exercise involving a SWAT team and the Sheriff’s Hazardous Devices Section took a terrifying turn on Wednesday when an explosion occurred, sending 16 team members to the hospital, with one requiring surgery for a leg injury. The incident happened around 1 p.m. during the training at the FBI Special Agent Jerry Crowe Regional Tactical Training Facility.
According to authorities, 15 team members were transported from the remote Irvine facility to local hospitals by ambulance, while one member took themselves to seek medical care. The individual who underwent surgery for a leg injury is said to be in stable condition and is expected to recover. Two other members sustained superficial injuries, with one to the leg and another to the back, but did not require surgery.
In the aftermath of the explosion, 13 additional SWAT team members were hospitalized after reporting symptoms of dizziness and ringing in their ears. The FBI facility, where the incident occurred, is typically used for firearms training and qualifications tests by both bureau personnel and local law enforcement agencies, confirmed bureau spokesperson Laura Eimiller. Fortunately, no FBI personnel were harmed during the incident.
Following the explosion, the FBI has taken the lead in investigating the cause alongside the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Both agencies are working together to determine what led to the unexpected blast during what was supposed to be a routine training session.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and dangers faced by law enforcement officers during training exercises. The swift response of emergency medical personnel and the cooperation between different agencies in handling the aftermath of the explosion highlight the importance of preparedness and coordination in dealing with such unforeseen events.
As investigations into the incident continue, authorities are focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of all team members involved while also taking steps to prevent similar accidents in the future. The incident underscores the ongoing commitment of law enforcement agencies to prioritize the training and safety of their personnel, even in the face of unexpected challenges.