Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus Death News; Cause of death revealed for 3 LASD deputies killed in East LA blast

Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus Death News – Three Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputies who died in a recent explosion at a training facility were killed in an accidental blast, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The report released on Monday confirmed that Detectives Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn died from “multiple blast injuries” sustained during the incident. Officials have officially ruled the deaths as accidental.

The tragic explosion took place at the LASD’s training facility in East Los Angeles, where the three experienced arson and explosives detectives were conducting a procedure involving small, military-style explosive devices. According to law enforcement sources, these devices had been previously examined or X-rayed, but what led to the fatal blast remains unclear.

The deadly incident occurred when the devices were brought into the parking lot of the training facility. The explosion was so powerful that it threw the deputies a significant distance from the blast site. All three men were part of the Special Enforcement Bureau’s Arson Explosives Detail, an elite and highly trained unit within the nation’s largest sheriff’s department.

Detective Joshua Kelley-Eklund, a 20-year veteran of the LASD, leaves behind his wife, Jessica Eklund, and their seven children. His long service to the department and his role as a family man have deeply impacted those who knew him.

Detective Victor Lemus, who had served for two years with the LASD, is survived by his wife, Detective Nancy Lemus—also with the department—and their three daughters. His relatively short time on the force was marked by dedication and promise.

Detective William Osborn had dedicated 33 years to law enforcement and was known as one of the department’s most experienced bomb technicians. His deep knowledge and reliability made him a go-to expert in handling complex explosive situations. He was widely respected within the sheriff’s office for his calm demeanor and technical skills.

The Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the remains of all three deputies are now cleared to be released to their respective families, who are currently making arrangements for memorial services. The LASD stated that additional details about the services will be shared in the coming days.

The incident has sparked concern and grief throughout the law enforcement community, especially within the LASD. Although investigators are continuing to look into what triggered the blast, the official ruling of accidental death closes one part of the tragic chapter. Meanwhile, the department and the deputies’ families are focused on honoring the lives and sacrifices of three men who served with courage, commitment, and expertise.