Mystery of Missing Grenade After Tragic Blast Claims Three Officers in L.A.

Authorities have confirmed that one grenade out of two discovered in a Santa Monica garage prior to a deadly explosion last week has gone missing. The explosion tragically resulted in the death of three deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that a comprehensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) revealed deputies retrieved two grenades from an underground garage on July 17. Initially thought to be inactive, one of these grenades later exploded, taking the lives of the deputies at the Biscailuz Training Facility.

Despite intense efforts to locate the missing grenade in the aftermath of the incident, neither the LASD nor the ATF have been able to recover it. Access to the blast site has been restricted, and a thorough search is ongoing within a 400-foot radius around the area.

Assurance of Arrival and Investigation

Sheriff Luna expressed certainty that the missing grenade made it to the training location and wasn’t misplaced during its transit from Santa Monica, a trip spanning over 21 miles. The ATF has assumed leadership of the search mission to find the explosive.

"We urge the public to contact local law enforcement or 911 immediately if they encounter any explosive device," Luna emphasized.

Impact on the Department

This devastating accident marks the severest loss for the department since 1857. Sheriff Luna has announced policy revisions to prevent future disasters, including treating all explosive devices as potential threats.

The Arson Explosives Detail, previously responsible for handling such devices, has been temporarily suspended from service calls. Meanwhile, the department has relied on the Los Angeles Police Department's teams for emergency responses, with gratitude extended to Chief Jim McDonnell for assistance.

Ongoing Investigation and Calls for Public Assistance

The ATF's National Response Team, known for their deployments at major incidents like the 9/11 Pentagon attack and the Oklahoma City and Centennial Olympic Park bombings, is investigating this case. Findings are expected to be released in 45 days.

A request for public assistance has been made, urging anyone with information to contact the Homicide Bureau or the ATF. The detectives tragically lost, Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn, were acknowledged for their service and sacrifice.

"Their loss is deeply felt by both their families and the entire department," Luna said, highlighting the exemplary qualities of the fallen officers.