Crime
5 injured in bomb explosion at Santa Maria Superior Court in California, suspect in custody
No injuries reported.
Santa Maria, CA – A powerful explosion occurred at the Santa Barbara County Superior Courthouse in Santa Maria on Wednesday morning, resulting in injuries and the closure of the courthouse and nearby government buildings.
According to Santa Barbara County Sheriff spokesperson Raquel Zick, the explosion was caused by an intentionally set improvised explosive device. Five individuals were injured and transported to Marian Regional Medical Center, where they are receiving treatment. Three patients are in fair condition, while two are in good condition.
A suspect has been detained and is currently being interviewed by law enforcement. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
Due to the ongoing investigation, roads surrounding the courthouse are closed, and the public is urged to avoid the area. In addition to the Superior Courthouse, Santa Maria City Hall, the public library, and other city offices have been closed for the day.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which provides courthouse security in Los Angeles County, has increased security measures in response to the incident but has not identified any credible threats in their jurisdiction.
Crime
18-year-old Kyler Naely charged for the murder in shooting death of 16-year-old Ja’Tycie Williams
An 18-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged in a deadly shooting that occurred in October, which claimed the life of a 16-year-old and injured another.
The incident began on October 6, 2024, shortly after 12:45 a.m., when officers were called to a shooting on I-244 near Yale Avenue.
Upon arrival, they discovered a gray SUV riddled with bullet holes and shattered windows. Investigators determined that seven people were inside the vehicle at the time of the shooting.
Two occupants of the vehicle suffered gunshot wounds.
One victim, 16-year-old Ja’Tycie Williams, sustained critical injuries and succumbed to them several weeks later. The other victim suffered a minor gunshot wound to the arm and survived.
Preliminary investigations revealed the incident was linked to a fight at the Tulsa State Fair earlier that evening.
Witnesses reported that the altercation, which occurred as the group was leaving the fairgrounds, likely escalated into the highway shooting.
Following an in-depth investigation, Tulsa Police Homicide Detectives identified 18-year-old Kyler Naely as the suspect responsible for the shooting.
On November 19, 2024, Naely was arrested, charged with first-degree murder, and booked into the Tulsa County Jail.
Authorities emphasize that the case remains under investigation and are urging anyone with additional information to contact Tulsa Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS. Callers can remain anonymous.