LOS ANGELES, CA — Nov. 16 – A 56-year-old man has been arrested following the discovery of an explosive device outside the Torrance Courthouse early Tuesday morning. The device, accompanied by a chilling note reading “these get bigger,” prompted an immediate response from bomb technicians and law enforcement, culminating in a controlled detonation and the closure of the courthouse for the day.
Authorities were alerted to the suspicious package around 7 a.m. and quickly secured the area. The device, described as a large orange bag or balloon, was discovered approximately 30 feet from the courthouse entrance. Nearby, investigators found metallic pellets, further heightening concerns.
Bomb technicians from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and the FBI’s bomb squad used a robot to safely detonate the device, producing a loud explosion that startled nearby witnesses. Carolina Castro, a visitor from Las Vegas who was in the area for a court case, described the scene: “It scared a lot of people. Car alarms went off. I heard a lady scream. It’s something I won’t forget.”
No injuries were reported, but the incident disrupted operations at the courthouse, which is scheduled to reopen Thursday.
The LASD confirmed the arrest of a 56-year-old man in connection with the case but did not release his identity or elaborate on his motives. Officials indicated the investigation is ongoing and that the suspect may face multiple charges related to the incident.
“The LASD and FBI are working closely to evaluate the evidence and determine the next steps in the investigation,” an FBI spokesperson said.
The incident has unsettled courthouse staff and visitors, with many expressing unease about the nature of the threat. “This was no joke,” said E.J. Montanez, an attorney who was nearby when the device was detonated. “The response showed how seriously law enforcement took the situation.”
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS or via lacrimestoppers.org.
The courthouse is expected to reopen with heightened security measures, and local officials emphasized their commitment to public safety. “This incident underscores the importance of community awareness and preparedness in addressing potential threats,” an LASD spokesperson said.
The investigation remains active as officials work to understand the suspect’s intentions and assess the broader implications of the threat. Further updates are expected as the case develops.
