With deepest sorrow, the Los Angeles County community and law enforcement family mourn the tragic loss of three courageous and dedicated deputies: Detective Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Detective Victor Lemus, and Detective William Osborn, who lost their lives in the line of duty on Friday, July 18, 2025, following a catastrophic explosion at the department’s Arson and Explosives Detail training facility in East Los Angeles.
The explosion occurred while the elite team was investigating a device recovered from a Santa Monica home—a device that was initially believed to be inert. The blast rocked the facility and shattered windows in nearby law enforcement vehicles, killing three of the department’s most experienced and respected bomb technicians on-site.
The fallen deputies had a combined 74 years of service, and each of them brought unwavering dedication, professionalism, and bravery to one of the most dangerous assignments in law enforcement. They belonged to an elite team that handles more than a thousand high-risk calls annually, investigating potential explosives, protecting lives, and serving communities under extreme pressure.
Sheriff Robert Luna, in a somber statement, called this tragedy “the largest loss of life in the department’s history since 1857.” He described the three men as “heroes” who exemplified the highest values of public service—commitment, courage, and sacrifice.
Colleagues and friends echoed these sentiments. Deputy Sheriff Tony Meraz spoke of their extraordinary character and commitment, saying they were “the kind of people you hope show up in the worst moments.” Jason Zabala, a fellow officer with the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, fought back tears as he described their work ethic, intelligence, and integrity. Having trained alongside two of the fallen, Zabala said the loss was deeply personal—and devastating to all who knew them.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the daily risks faced by those in explosive ordnance disposal units, where even routine protocols and extensive experience cannot eliminate all danger.
An emotional procession on Friday afternoon honored the fallen detectives, with fellow deputies, first responders, and community members lining the route to pay their respects. The Sheriff’s Department has vowed a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion, though officials caution that answers may take time.
As the community grieves, tributes continue to pour in from across the state and the nation. The lives of Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn will be remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived—with valor, selflessness, and deep commitment to public safety.
They are survived by their families, friends, and brothers and sisters in uniform. Their absence leaves a tremendous void, but their legacy will forever be etched in the heart of Los Angeles.
Rest in eternal peace, Detectives Kelley-Eklund, Lemus, and Osborn.
Your bravery and service will never be forgotten.
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