In the aftermath of the devastating bombing at the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, the father of the suspected perpetrator, Guy Edward Bartkus, has spoken publicly, expressing shock and sorrow over his son’s actions.
Richard Bartkus, the father of 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus, revealed in interviews that he had not spoken to his son in over a decade. He described Guy as a once-kind and helpful child who underwent a significant change after moving to Twentynine Palms, California. “He tried to help people,” Richard recalled. “After Twentynine Palms, he just changed.”
The bombing occurred on May 17, 2025, when a car exploded outside the fertility clinic, injuring four people and killing the suspected bomber, believed to be Guy Bartkus. Investigators have classified the incident as an act of terrorism, citing writings left behind by Bartkus that expressed anti-natalist and nihilistic beliefs.
Richard Bartkus recounted that as a child, Guy had a fascination with how things worked and would experiment with smoke bombs and other harmless devices. However, he also mentioned a troubling incident where Guy accidentally burned down their family home at the age of nine while playing with matches.
The father expressed deep regret over the estrangement from his son, stating, “I’m totally sad because I know, I always thought we might have a chance of getting back together. I haven’t seen him in 12 years and now I’ll never see him again.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are examining Bartkus’s online activity and writings to understand the motivations behind the attack. The FBI has emphasized the targeted nature of the bombing and is seeking information from the public to fill in gaps in the timeline of events leading up to the explosion.
The Palm Springs community and the nation grapple with the tragedy, reflecting on the complexities of mental health, radicalization, and the importance of early intervention in preventing such acts of violence.
