California Courthouse Bombing: Suspect Arrested

Photo: Courthouse in Santa Maria, California/09.25.2024/KEYT/AP

On Wednesday, September 25, a man detonated an explosive device in the lobby of a California courthouse, sending five people to the hospital with minor injuries, the Associated Press reported, citing local authorities.

The explosion occurred in the morning, around 8:45 a.m., at the courthouse in Santa Maria — city ​​of 110,000 in Santa Barbara County.

A man entered the courthouse and threw his bag at a security checkpoint, causing it to explode. Authorities arrested the suspect outside the courthouse as he attempted to get into his car. He was wearing a bulletproof vest under his jacket.

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Officials said the incident does not appear to be related to terrorism or political violence. The suspect faces felony charges of attempted murder, use of an explosive device, and possession of an explosive device.

“We believe this is a local matter that has been safely resolved and that there are no outstanding public safety issues,” Santa Barbara Sheriff's Deputy Craig Bonner said. The sheriff's office said it has stepped up patrols at courthouses in neighboring Los Angeles County. Following the blast, authorities evacuated businesses, homes and a school within a five-block radius.

Three of the five victims suffered burns, Bonner said. All were treated and released from the hospital.

Prepared by: Sergei Daga