Two Injured in IED Blast at Santa Barbara County Courthouse; One Arrested
Authorities are currently on the scene following an explosion that resulted in injuries at a courthouse in Southern California.
According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, the explosion occurred just before 8:50 a.m. local time at the Santa Maria Courthouse.
At least two individuals sustained injuries that are not expected to be life-threatening, as noted by the sheriff’s office via their post on X.
Raquel Zick, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, confirmed that a man has been taken into custody and that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device that was intentionally set off.
Explosion at Santa Maria Courthouse: ‘Stay Away from the Area’
Law enforcement and emergency responders are urging the public to stay clear of the vicinity as they conduct their investigation.
The precise cause of the explosion has not been determined at this time.
However, CalCoastNews.com reported that around 8:35 a.m. local time, a man entered a courtroom, shouted “the FDA is poisoning 900,000 people every year,” and then threw an IED inside.
According to the report, “The device ignited, causing smoke to pour from the open door,” leading to panic among those present.
Attorney Bill Ausman, who was at the courthouse during the incident, stated that the man was swiftly apprehended by law enforcement.
This story is still developing and will be updated with new details throughout the afternoon.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for YSL News. You can follow her on X @nataliealund.