A man who detonated a car bomb outside a reproductive clinic in Palm Springs, California, has shared a chilling manifesto, proclaiming a “war with pro-referers” and expressing his commitment to an ideology tied to so-called “mortarists,” a group rejecting the notion of bringing new life into the world.
Authorities are investigating Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, from Twentynine Palms, who reportedly posted a 30-minute video rant that attempts to rationalize his violent actions on Saturday.
His particular target is in vitro fertilization (IVF), which he denounces as “very wrong.”
Witnesses noted the explosion injured four people and caused significant damage to the area. In the audio, Bartkus states, “I’m mad… I exist,” and claims his parents did not have the right to bring him into the world.
He further elaborates, saying, “Essentially I’m an anti-living organism. And IVF epitomizes the ideology of life.”
Besides the lengthy rant, his website included a Q&A section about his beliefs, along with a transcript linked to the shooter from Sandy Hook Elementary. Bartkus’s views align with what’s termed “anti-natalism,” a perspective suggesting life inevitably leads to suffering, arguing against creating new lives.
“The ultimate goal is that truth wins,” he comments, emphasizing a desire to “sterilize this planet of life’s disease.”
Reflecting on his existence, he states, “I want to escape this life game,” expressing disdain for what he views as society’s expected norms. His focus on infertility clinics stems from a desire to target those he believes have made informed decisions about procreation.
The situation escalated, but thankfully, a courageous firefighter and FBI agents entered the compromised clinic to retrieve medical records and embryos, ensuring no further harm to patients.
Police Chief Andrew Mills highlighted the bravery of those who rushed into the unsafe building, emphasizing the hope that families might still fulfill their dreams of parenthood despite the chaos.
Bartkus also mentioned a friend named “Sophie,” who had a tragic story linked to her views on life and death. He painted her as a figure caught in the same nihilistic beliefs he holds.
In a perplexing twist, he discussed his veganism, arguing that the harm inflicted by nature outweighs human actions. His ideology wraps around the belief that reproduction itself is unethical, further isolating him from societal norms.
Following the explosion, law enforcement raided Bartkus’s home, labeling his attacks as “intentional terrorist acts.” They also found weapons and ammunition linked to his troubling activities.
Firefighters, responding shortly after the explosion around 11 AM, encountered debris and chaos outside the reproductive health facility. Eyewitnesses noted an unusual smell lingering in the air as smoke billowed across the desert landscape.
A police brief indicated the presence of two rifles near the blast site, adding to the gravity of the situation. Investigations are ongoing as the community grapples with this shocking event.
