A man has been charged with multiple offenses, including attempted murder and bomb possession, following the recent explosion at Santa Maria Courthouse, which injured several individuals. Nathaniel James McGuire, at just 20 years old, allegedly threw a bomb inside the courthouse on September 25 as he arrived for his arraignment related to illegal gun possession.
Authorities have painted a chilling picture of this incident, alleging McGuire has not only targeted the courthouse but also orchestrated several arson fires leading up to the explosion. Santa Barbara County prosecutors have charged him with ten counts, including two counts of attempted murder, and multiple arson counts related to fires set near Santa Maria.
According to official reports, McGuire threw a bag containing explosive materials at the courthouse’s screening station. The explosion occurred around 8:48 AM, damaging the building and leaving five people injured. Following the explosion, local emergency services rushed four to the hospital, and one individual sought treatment on their own, though none of the injuries were deemed life-threatening.
McGuire was apprehended shortly after the explosion when he attempted to return to his Ford Mustang parked nearby. Law enforcement discovered numerous potentially dangerous items, including loaded firearms, 10 Molotov cocktails, deadly fireworks, and what’s suspected to be another bomb within the vehicle. McGuire’s residence also yielded concerning materials, including homemade explosive components and fireworks.
During his arrest, McGuire exhibited alarming behavior, purportedly shouting about lost rights and government oppression, which left the courtroom shocked during his arraignment. His defense attorney had to intervene as he yelled, “You guys are the real criminals,” clearly distressed.
The investigation has revealed preliminary connections between McGuire's activities leading up to the bombing and several forest fires on the outskirts of Santa Maria. The authorities allege these fires were attempts to create distractions or cover for the courthouse attack.
McGuire had reportedly expressed intentions to kill deputies stationed at the courthouse security desk. Authorities indicate he planned to return to his vehicle to retrieve more loaded firearms to continue his violent agenda within the courthouse.
Nathaniel McGuire is currently held without bail at the federal facility, and he faces severe charges across both federal and state levels. He is scheduled for his federal arraignment on October 18 and must address the county’s charges afterward. This incident has sparked debates on the growing concern of violent extremism at local levels and the handling of firearms regulations. Authorities have vowed to continue investigating all angles of this alarming case.
