Today in 1999: Bomb explodes at Asheville abortion clinic
On March 13, 1999, a bomb exploded at the Femcare clinic in Asheville, North Carolina. “The bomb was placed into a knapsack and exploded at around 7:30a.m., 1/2 hour before the clinic was scheduled to open.”1 “Officials found what they believe was either a secondary incendiary device or a portion of the original device that did not explode,” meaning the bomb only partially detonated.2
The President of the United States released the following statement:
“I was deeply disturbed to learn of the attempted bombing of a family planning clinic in Asheville, North Carolina. We can all be grateful that no one was harmed and that the clinic suffered only minor damage. But whether or not a terrorist's bomb achieves its deadly purpose, such cowardly and criminal acts strike at the heart of the constitutional freedoms and individual liberties all Americans hold dear. I strongly condemn this act of senseless violence. Federal agents are already in Asheville to assist local law enforcement officials. I am confident that the perpetrators of this terrible act will be brought to justice.”
The bomb had been placed against the wall of the Femcare clinic near the waiting room, but detonated shortly before the clinic opened.3 No patients were inside.
“It appeared to be a very large device,” said Police Chief Will Annarino, adding “[I]t appears it could have caused a lot of damage.”4
The case remains open and no arrests have been made.
Feminist Majority Foundation. (2020, February 13). Bomb Damages North Carolina Abortion Clinic. https://feminist.org/news/bomb-damages-north-carolina-abortion-clinic/
Feminist Majority Foundation. (2020, February 13). Bomb Damages North Carolina Abortion Clinic. https://feminist.org/news/bomb-damages-north-carolina-abortion-clinic/
CNN. (1999, March 13). US Bomb explodes at North Carolina women’s clinic. https://www.cnn.com/US/9903/13/clinic.blast.03/index.html
Staff Writer. (2009, June 2). Bomb explodes at Abortion Clinic. The Ledger. https://www.theledger.com/story/news/1999/03/14/bomb-explodes-at-abortion-clinic/8051219007/