‘Loud bang’: Explosive at California courthouse leaves at least 5 injured, suspect held – Times of India

Explosive at California courthouse leaves at least 5 injured, suspect held (Picture credit: AP)

A 20-year-old man was held for causing an explosion in the lobby of the Santa Maria Courthouse in California on Wednesday morning.
Shane Mellon, a witness, told KSBY-TV that he initially thought the explosion was the sound of chairs falling. He said, “It was a loud bang,” and saw a man screaming and a smoldering sweater while deputies restrained the suspect.”I think this could have been way worse than it was if not for the deputies just jumping on top of that guy,” Mellon added.
The explosion happened around 8.45am (local time) in the city of Santa Maria, located in Santa Barbara County. The suspect, who had been arrested for illegal gun possession and was set to appear in court, threw a bag at the screening station, which caused the explosion. The authorities detained him outside the courthouse while he was attempting to get into his car. When arrested, he was found wearing body armour beneath his jacket. He was not injured in the blast.
As per the news agency AP, five people experienced minor injuries and were taken to the hospital, according to officials. The courthouse, schools, and nearby city buildings were also evacuated and closed as police investigated.
Three of the five injured people suffered burn wounds but were treated and released by the hospital. None of the victims were court employees.
Santa Barbara Undersheriff Craig Bonner said the incident was not linked to terrorism or political violence. “We do believe this is a local matter that has been safely resolved and that there are no outstanding community safety concerns,” Bonner stated.
The suspect faces several felony charges including attempted murder, using an explosive device, attempting to kill someone and possession of explosive devices. Officials are also investigating whether he is connected to recent arson cases. In July, he was arrested for carrying a concealed loaded revolver.
Governor Gavin Newsom‘s office announced it was monitoring the situation and cooperating with local law enforcement. Patrols were increased at courthouses in Los Angeles County as a precaution.
Santa Maria City Hall and other nearby city offices, including libraries, were closed Wednesday due to the ongoing investigation. The Santa Maria Courthouse will remain closed Thursday, and filing extensions will be offered to those affected by the shutdown.
The Santa Maria Courthouse, which is about 150 miles northwest of Los Angeles, serves both state and county courts. It was notably the site of Michael Jackson’s trial and acquittal on sexual abuse charges two decades ago.