Explosion Shakes Santa Maria Courthouse
A 20-year-old man detonated an explosive device inside a courthouse in Santa Maria, California, on Wednesday, where he was scheduled to be arraigned on a gun possession charge. The blast injured five people, prompting the evacuation of nearby city buildings and temporarily shutting down the courthouse.
According to Santa Barbara County Undersheriff Craig Bonner, the man threw the explosive device as he approached the screening station inside the courthouse. He fled the scene but was apprehended nearby while attempting to access his parked vehicle. Authorities have confirmed the suspect was wearing body armor at the time of the explosion.
Suspect Arrested for Attempted Murder and Explosives Charges
The suspect, a Santa Maria resident, had been previously arrested in July for illegal gun possession. Following the explosion, he was booked on charges of attempted murder and possession of explosives. Officials are also investigating whether the man is connected to a series of recent arson cases in the area.
Despite the nature of the attack, authorities do not believe it was linked to terrorism or political violence. “We believe this was a local matter tied to his prior arrest,” said Undersheriff Bonner, assuring the public that the threat had been neutralized and there were no further safety concerns.
Five Injured in Courthouse Blast
The explosion injured five people, three of whom sustained burn injuries. None of the victims were court employees, and all were treated and released from a nearby hospital. Fortunately, the injuries were minor, and no fatalities were reported.
One eyewitness, Shane Mellon, described the chaotic scene to local news outlet KSBY-TV. “It was a loud bang, and then everyone was being evacuated,” he said. Mellon also recalled seeing what appeared to be a smoldering sweater and a man screaming as bystanders restrained him. “I think this could have been way worse if it weren’t for the quick actions of the deputies.”
Evacuations and Temporary Closures
Following the explosion, authorities evacuated a five-block radius surrounding the courthouse, including businesses, homes, and a nearby school. The courthouse, which houses both state and county courtrooms, will remain closed on Thursday as investigators continue their work. Filing extensions have been granted for those affected by the closure.
