### Explosion at Santa Maria Courthouse Injures Five, Suspect Detained

An explosive device detonated at the Santa Maria Courthouse in California on Wednesday morning, injuring five individuals and leading to the closure of the courthouse and surrounding city buildings. The blast occurred around 8:45 a.m. in the lobby of the courthouse, a critical entry point for various courtrooms, Santa Barbara County Sheriff's officials reported.

A man suspected of setting off the device was taken into custody shortly after the explosion, and authorities have stated that they do not believe there are additional suspects involved. Sheriff’s spokesperson Raquel Zick confirmed the intentional nature of the blast and cautioned residents to stay clear of the area as investigations continue.

Initially, two people were reported to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries. However, Sandy Doucette, spokesperson for Marian Regional Medical Center, later confirmed that the hospital was treating five patients. Two individuals were reported to be in good condition, while three were in fair condition, though specific details about their injuries were not disclosed.

The incident caused significant disruption, including the immediate closure of the courthouse, which houses both state and county courts in the city of Santa Maria, located approximately 150 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The explosion took place in a high-traffic area of the courthouse, where visitors must undergo weapons screening to access court services.

Eyewitness Shane Mellon described hearing a loud bang akin to chairs falling over, followed by courthouse officers quickly subduing the suspect. Mellon observed a smoldering sweater and a man screaming before deputies intervened to restrain him, preventing further escalation.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom's office announced that it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local law enforcement agencies. Increased security measures have been implemented in courthouses across neighboring Los Angeles County.

The explosion also led to the closure of Santa Maria City Hall and several other nearby city offices and branch libraries. The courthouse holds historical significance as the site of Michael Jackson's acquittal on sexual abuse charges two decades ago. Despite the day's disruptions, court executive officer Darrel Parker anticipates that courthouse operations will resume by Thursday.

Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the attack as the bomb squad processes the scene and interviews the detained suspect.