Two people were injured on Wednesday following an explosion inside a courtroom at the Santa Maria Courthouse in California, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area as the scene had not yet been deemed safe, reports Reuters.
“Santa Maria Courthouse: report of an explosion. Please avoid the area. Scene has not been deemed safe. More info to follow,” the sheriff’s office posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Initial reports indicate that the two victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Local news outlet Noozhawk reported that the suspect, who was already inside the courthouse, threw a bag into an arraignment courtroom, which then exploded. Superior Court Executive Officer Darrel Parker confirmed the details to the outlet, adding that the suspect had been taken into custody.
Law enforcement quickly responded to the incident, and the area was cordoned off while bomb squads and other emergency personnel worked to secure the scene.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office released a statement via X, saying that the state’s Office of Emergency Services was actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with local law enforcement.
The explosion caused panic and led to the temporary suspension of courthouse activities, as authorities moved swiftly to ensure no further danger to those in the building. Santa Maria, a city located roughly 150 miles (241 km) northwest of Los Angeles, is home to one of the busiest courthouses in Santa Barbara County.
Further details, including the identity of the suspect and potential motives behind the explosion, are yet to be confirmed as the investigation is ongoing. Emergency services continue to work at the scene, and authorities are expected to release additional updates as they become available.