A bomb detonated at Santa Maria Courthouse in California, resulting in several injuries and the detention of a suspect.
At a Glance
- Explosion at Santa Maria Courthouse injures at least six people.
- Suspect Nathaniel McGuire taken into custody.
- No life-threatening injuries reported; non-life-threatening injuries sustained.
- Federal investigation confirms no transnational terrorism links.
Explosion at Santa Maria Courthouse
On Wednesday, a bomb detonated at the Santa Maria Courthouse in Santa Maria, California, leading to at least six reported injuries. The explosion was triggered when a man threw a backpack at security, which subsequently exploded. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Nathaniel McGuire, was quickly taken into custody. McGuire was scheduled to appear in court that morning for previous firearms violations.
The explosion resulted in non-life-threatening injuries, affecting five individuals who were transported to the hospital, three of whom sustained burns. Authorities responded swiftly, locking down and closing several city offices. The explosion, caused by an intentionally set improvised explosive device, has prompted a thorough investigation by the local sheriff’s office, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and federal agencies.
Two people were injured in an explosion in a courtroom in the Santa Maria Courthouse in California, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office amid a report that a suspect was in custody.
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Suspect Nathanial McGuire in Custody
Nathaniel McGuire, who was already facing charges for previous firearms violations, has been charged with attempted murder, using an explosive device in attempting to kill someone, and possession of explosive devices. He was wearing body armor at the time of the explosion and was uninjured. McGuire is currently being held without bail as the investigation continues.
“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.”, stated Undersheriff Bonner
The incident, believed to be motivated by McGuire’s previous arrest for carrying an unregistered concealed weapon, caused widespread disruption. Several nearby homes and a school were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Investigators are conducting searches related to McGuire, including his vehicle, for additional evidence.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI has opened a federal investigation into the incident and confirmed that there are no ties to transnational terrorism. Authorities believe that this was a localized event with no larger threat to community safety. The courthouse will remain closed on Thursday as investigations are ongoing and the bomb team processes the scene. Officials are seeking further information from the public via the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office anonymous tip line or the FBI.
“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 Mr. Bonner
Despite the troubling event, the swift response by local and federal authorities ensures that there is no additional threat to public safety at this time. The Santa Maria community, though understandably shaken, has shown resilience as normalcy begins to return after this unsettling incident.
