Explosion Injures Two People at Santa Maria Courthouse; One Person of Interest Detained

An explosive device was deliberately set off at a courthouse in California, injuring two individuals, according to authorities. The incident occurred shortly after 8:45 a.m. at the Santa Maria Courthouse, located in Santa Maria, a city with around 110,000 residents in Santa Barbara County on California's central coast.

Following the explosion, one person of interest was detained by law enforcement. Raquel Zick, the Public Information Officer for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff, confirmed this on the social platform X. "We have two reports of non-life-threatening injuries. One person of interest detained immediately. Scene remains active. Please continue to avoid the area," she stated.

Investigation and Response

The detained individual is a man, and the explosion resulted from an "intentionally set explosive device," according to Zick. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department has not released further details at this time. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom's office is monitoring the situation and working with local law enforcement agencies.

The courthouse complex in Santa Maria, which accommodates both state and county courts, was closed for the day following the incident. All courtroom activities were canceled as a precautionary measure. The city of Santa Maria is situated approximately 150 miles (240 km) northwest of Los Angeles.

Impact on Court Operations

The Superior Court's website for Santa Barbara County announced the closure of the courthouse complex and cancellation of all court calendars for the day. Efforts to reach Darrel Parker, the court's executive officer, via phone and email were unsuccessful.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion while ensuring public safety in the area. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the vicinity as law enforcement personnel manage the ongoing situation.