Authorities are facing a significant challenge in the investigation surrounding a deadly explosion that killed three Los Angeles County sheriff’s detectives. Recent reports have confirmed that one of two grenades discovered in a Santa Monica townhome complex is currently missing, prompting an extensive search by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Sheriff Robert Luna shared that the investigation revealed one grenade detonated on July 18, leaving the second device unaccounted for.
“We conducted a thorough search to locate the second device, but we haven’t found it yet,” Sheriff Luna stated at a press briefing.
The ATF has taken the lead in investigating the incident and will oversee the search for the missing grenade. Special Agent Kenny Cooper, head of the ATF’s Los Angeles Field Division, announced a nationwide effort involving detection dogs, explosives experts, and technicians. However, despite their efforts, a search covering a 400-foot radius from the explosion site failed to locate the elusive grenade.
Investigators have ascertained the type of military grenade involved in the blast but are still working to uncover its origins. The search for the grenade includes assessing its movements prior to the explosion and understanding how it ended up in a Santa Monica storage unit.
According to law enforcement sources, investigators recognized the absence of the second grenade when they found only one of the explosives’ safety mechanisms, known as a “spoon.” This suggests that only one grenade detonated at the scene.
The bomb squad discovered the two grenades left behind by a previous tenant in an underground parking garage storage unit. After retrieving them on the evening of July 17, they transported the explosives to the Biscailuz Center Training Academy for destruction. Tragically, one grenade exploded as technicians were handling it the following day, leading to the deaths of Det. Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Det. Victor Lemus, and Det. William Osborn.
Investigators initially believed the grenades were inert following X-ray examinations, according to a search warrant recently obtained by The Times. Sheriff Luna emphasized there is no evidence that the detectives attempted to tamper with the grenade before the explosion, dispelling previous theories.
To address this tragic event, investigations have expanded to include searches of storage lockers and boats potentially linked to individuals with military backgrounds.
“Every avenue is being looked at,” Sheriff Luna remarked, indicating that they are scrutinizing every person and location that could provide clues. He did not disclose any specific names as part of the investigation while reinforcing that detectives are actively seeking leads.
The ATF’s preliminary findings regarding the explosive devices are expected to be followed up with a more comprehensive analysis, which may be completed in about 45 days. Responding to the incident, Sheriff Luna has called for an independent review of the department’s protocols for handling explosive devices and intends to collaborate with the ATF to refine future disposal practices.
Furthermore, the Sheriff has ordered psychological evaluations for personnel involved to ensure their well-being after the traumatic event.
“We’re going to turn this upside down; we’re gonna look at everything we can,” Sheriff Luna asserted. “We need to know what happened. We owe it to the families … I never want this to happen again.”
Both Luna and Cooper have urged local residents to report any unusual objects resembling explosives to law enforcement. They assure the public that there is no immediate danger to the community, despite the ongoing investigation.
“We used drones, we used bucket trucks to look into trees; we searched well beyond and we didn’t do it once,” Cooper explained, urging vigilance in reporting suspicious items.
Anyone with information concerning this investigation is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500 or the ATF tip hotline at (888) 283-8477.
image source from：latimes
