This week’s courthouse bombing in Santa Maria, California, resulted in five people being injured and has led to federal charges against the alleged perpetrator, Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria.
According to the Justice Department, McGuire was charged with maliciously damaging a building using an explosive device.
The incident is believed to be driven by McGuire’s anger over the government seizing his firearms after a previous arrest for possessing an unregistered firearm.
The attack occurred Wednesday when McGuire allegedly entered the courthouse lobby, threw a bomb inside a bag, and fled the scene on foot after the explosion.
He was arrested soon after while attempting to access a Ford Mustang parked outside.
Authorities claim McGuire shouted that the government had taken his guns and urged people to fight, rise up, and rebel.
A search of McGuire’s car revealed a stash of weapons, including a shotgun, rifle, ammunition, and explosives, such as a suspected bomb and 10 Molotov cocktails.
Further investigation at his residence uncovered more explosive materials and instructions for bomb-making.
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said McGuire’s actions caused significant fear and disruption within the community, and he will now face justice in federal court.
Despite the injuries sustained by the victims, none were life-threatening, though four were transported to the hospital immediately, and the fifth sought medical treatment independently.