A bomb exploded at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse in Santa Maria, California, injuring six people and leading to the arrest of a suspect wearing body armor.
At a Glance
- An explosion occurred at the Santa Maria courthouse, injuring at least six people
- Suspect Nathaniel McGuire, 20, was arrested at the scene
- The explosion was caused by an intentionally set improvised explosive device
- McGuire was scheduled to appear in court that day for previous firearms violations
- Authorities believe this to be a local incident with no larger threat to community safety
Explosion Rocks Santa Maria Courthouse
On Wednesday morning, the quiet town of Santa Maria, California was shaken by a sudden explosion at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. The incident occurred shortly after 8:45 a.m. when a man, later identified as 20-year-old Nathaniel McGuire, threw a backpack at security, which then detonated in the first-floor lobby. This area serves as the entryway and weapons screening point for the court campus.
The blast injured at least six people, with five being treated at local hospitals. Three individuals suffered physical injuries, including burns. Fortunately, all reported injuries were non-life-threatening. McGuire, who was wearing body armor at the time, was not injured in the explosion and was quickly apprehended by law enforcement officers at the scene.
Suspect in Custody, Motive Under Investigation
Authorities have taken McGuire into custody and are currently investigating the motive behind this alarming act. It has been revealed that McGuire was scheduled to appear in court that very morning for previous firearms violations. This information has led investigators to believe that the incident may be connected to his prior arrest.
“Although this is an ongoing investigation and we are exploring all possible angles, at this point in time, we do believe this to be a local incident committed by a local individual with a local grievance stemming from his arrest,” said Undersheriff Bonner.
McGuire has been charged with attempted murder, using an explosive device in attempting to kill someone, and possession of explosive devices. He is currently being held without bail. The FBI has opened a federal investigation but has confirmed that there are no ties to transnational terrorism.
Community Response and Safety Measures
In response to the explosion, several city offices were placed on lockdown and closed for the day. The courthouse, nearby homes, and a school were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The courthouse will remain closed on Thursday as authorities continue their investigation and ensure the safety of the premises.
“We are not absolutely ruling out that there is not something larger at play but at this time we do believe that this is a local matter that has been safely resolved and there are no outstanding community safety concerns,” Undersheriff Bonner reassured the public.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department are conducting thorough investigations, including searches related to McGuire and his vehicle. They are also exploring any potential connections to recent arson fires in the area. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure public safety.
As the community begins to recover from this shocking event, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has set up an anonymous tip line, and the FBI is also accepting information to aid in their investigation.
Sources:
- Man facing firearms charge threw bag with explosive inside California courthouse, injuring several people, officials say
- Suspect in custody, 5 injured after explosion at Santa Maria courthouse
- Police Arrest Man Who Threw Explosive Device in California Courthouse
