LA County Sheriff’s Department Faces Devastating Loss As 3 Deputies Are Killed In Explosion
on Jul 21, 2025
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating loss of three of our brave deputies.”
Friday, July 18th, is now going down as the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s most deadly day since 1857. According to Sheriff Robert Luna, the tragic day marks the department’s “largest loss of life.”
The three deputies who were killed in the explosion have been identified as Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn. The three men have a collective 74 years on the force.
“Deputy Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Deputy Victor Lemus, and Deputy William Osborn were members of our Arson and Explosives Detail. Each of them had years of experience, a deep commitment to their calling, and an unwavering sense of duty.”
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department described the men as “elite members of the force.”
The three men leave behind 16 children.
The department shared a moving tribute on their social media to the three men.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating loss of three of our brave deputies, who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. These were not just deputies, they were fathers, sons, mentors, and protectors who dedicated their lives to serving our communities with courage and honor. To say we are heartbroken is an understatement. We are devastated, we are grieving, and we are holding close the families, friends, and colleagues who now carry the weight of unimaginable loss.”
The Explosion Is Under Investigation
Currently, the explosion is considered an accident, but investigators are still at the scene, working to determine what caused this devastating event.
The Sheriff’s Department’s bomb squad responded to a call in Los Angeles County involving an explosive device. Although the investigation is ongoing, it appears that the confiscated explosive device found on Thursday detonated while being moved on Friday morning at the training facility.
They are not fully confident but believe this was not an intentional attack, rather an unfortunate accident. They are still working to uncover the device’s origin and other relevant details.
District Attorney General Pamela Bondi tweeted that federal agents are on the scene and working to uncover what happened during this tragic event.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragedy.
