Man throws exposive device into courtroom on day of arraignment, injuring 5

By Jen Krausz on
 September 26, 2024

A man who was set to be arraigned on firearms charges on Wednesday allegedly threw an explosive device into the courtroom as he was entering, setting off an explosion that injured five people.

Around 8:48 a.m. Pacific time, the explosion was reported at the Santa Maria Courthouse in Santa Barbara County, California.

Court executive Darrel Parker told ABC News that the suspect threw a small bag past the weapons screening area when he was entering, which then exploded when it hit the floor of the arraignment room.

Burns were reported among the injured.

Nathaniel McGuire, 20, will now be charged with attempted murder, possessing and using an explosive device, in addition to his original charge that occurred on July 28 when police arrested him for having a gun not registered to him.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office Undersheriff Craig Bonner said McGuire will be held without bail.

The courthouse, Santa Maria City Hall, Finance Department, City Attorney's Office, Santa Maria Public Library, and Recreation and Parks Department were all closed on Wednesday, and the courthouse remained closed on Thursday amid the investigation.