A 20-year-old man named Nathaniel McGuire from Santa Maria, California, who had been recently arrested on a gun charge, threw an explosive device into the Santa Maria courthouse where he was to be arraigned, injuring three people. None of the injuries were life-threatening, and everyone who was hurt was treated and released from the hospital. McGuire was arrested as he tried to get into his car after the explosion. The FBI is assisting in the investigation, and it is believed that McGuire’s motivation stemmed from a personal grudge, likely related to his recent arrest for firearms violations. He was wearing body armor at the time of his arrest. McGuire is being held without bail and faces charges of attempted murder, using an explosive device in an attempt to kill someone, and possession of an explosive device. The courthouse, surrounding residences, and a school were evacuated following the explosion as the bomb squad searched for any additional explosives. Santa Maria is located in Santa Barbara County, about 150 miles northwest of Los Angeles. There is no further threat to the community, as this incident appears to be related to an individual grievance from McGuire.
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