Blast fears spark new evacuation in California neighbourhood near Palm Springs bombing

Worried residents were forced to flee their homes as federal agents descended on the quiet community, with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department confirming they were assisting with the operation.

In a statement to , the department said: “The law enforcement activity occurring in Twentynine Palms is an FBI investigation. San Bernardino County Sheriff’s personnel are on scene and acting as a liaison and providing assistance, as necessary.

"For information on the incident, please contact the FBI.”

Few details have been released about the nature of the investigation, which was conducted in an area just over an hour from the recent Palm Springs bombing at an IVF lab which left one dead and was declared a terrorist attack, and sources confirmed that a possible explosive threat was serious enough to warrant the precautionary evacuations.

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The FBI has yet to release an official statement as the probe continues into the weekend.

Authorities have widened the evacuation zone in Twentynine Palms as the FBI investigation continues, warning locals to steer clear of a large area amid fears of a potential blast.

Residents have been told to avoid and stay out of the following zones in the city:

• Hwy 62 to the south

• Amboy to the north

• Bullion Ave to the west

• Utah Trl to the east

News Channel 3’s Kendall Flynn reported that police have been evacuating people along Homestead Road and Playa Palo Verde Avenue, stretching all the way west to Adobe Road.

In a show of community support, Freedom Plaza in downtown Twentynine Palms has been opened to evacuees.

Authorities confirmed that the site will remain open until law enforcement lifts the current closure order and residents are safely allowed to return home.

When asked whether the investigation is linked to the recent bomb explosion suspect in Palm Springs, an FBI spokesperson declined to comment, saying they would not discuss the investigation at this time.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and stay clear of the affected areas.

For further information on the Palm Springs bombing follow the