An explosion occurred at the Santa Maria Courthouse in California on Wednesday, leaving two people injured. The injuries are reportedly non-life threatening and a person of interest has been detained in connection with the incident, according to Raquel Zick, public information officer for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Zick, who has provided updates about the ongoing situation on X, the explosion is believed to have been from an “intentionally set improvised explosive device.” Zick also warned the public that the “scene has not been deemed safe” and advised people to avoid the area.
Mark Van de Camp, a spokesperson for the city of Santa Maria, stated that the courthouse is closed and city buildings within one block of its location will also be temporarily closed, according to ABC News.
A witness who spoke to KSBY claimed that they saw someone walk into the courthouse and throw a backpack at security which caused an explosion. The suspect is reported to be an adult male.
California Governor Gavin Newsom's office posted a statement on X that the California Office of Emergency Services is "actively monitoring" the situation.
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