News Summary
A live artillery shell exploded prematurely during a Marine Corps demonstration over Interstate 5, jeopardizing Vice President JD Vance’s security detail and resulting in significant traffic disruptions across Southern California. No injuries were reported, but major delays ensued as a 17-mile stretch of the highway was closed following the incident. Governor Newsom condemned the military exercise, citing public safety concerns. As investigations continue, officials aim to ensure safety protocols are adhered to in future demonstrations.
Camp Pendleton, California – A live artillery shell exploded prematurely during a Marine Corps live-fire demonstration over Interstate 5, endangering the protective detail of Vice President JD Vance and causing major traffic disruptions across Southern California. The incident occurred as part of an event celebrating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, which aimed to showcase amphibious vehicles and troops.
Shrapnel from the 155mm shell fell onto several vehicles, including a motorcycle belonging to a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer who was part of Vice President Vance’s security detail. Reports noted that pieces of shrapnel landed on vehicles parked along the Interstate 5 ramp. After assessing the risks posed to the public, Governor Gavin Newsom ordered the highway’s closure despite earlier assurances from military officials that it would remain open.
The premature explosion took place while Vice President Vance was in attendance with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at Camp Pendleton. According to an officer on the scene, there were sounds that resembled “pebbles” striking their motorcycle, while another reported that shrapnel hit a patrol vehicle’s hood, creating a small dent. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
In response to the explosion, CHP closed a significant 17-mile stretch of I-5, leading to substantial traffic congestion affecting San Diego and Orange Counties. Many travelers experienced significant delays, with alternate routes causing some detours that extended travel times by an hour. Additionally, train services that run parallel to I-5 were also canceled due to the live-fire exercise.
Governor Newsom condemned the military demonstration, labeling it an “absurd show of force” and criticized the White House for prioritizing a military exercise over public safety. Marines defended the exercise, stating it had been deemed safe and initially saw no need to disrupt traffic. A spokesperson from the Marine Corps acknowledged concerns from the CHP and mentioned an investigation regarding the incident was underway.
The live-fire demonstration involved the discharge of around 60 rounds, which was halted immediately following the explosion. State transportation officials made the decision to close the highway after acknowledging potential safety risks that called for warnings about “overhead fire in progress.” This closure impacted one of California’s primary transportation routes, which typically accommodates approximately 80,000 travelers and facilitates around $94 million in freight movement daily.
In the aftermath of the incident, Representative Darrell Issa criticized Governor Newsom’s actions, suggesting they were a “spiteful publicity stunt.” Conversely, Governor Newsom asserted that, while California values its Marines, military activities should never compromise public safety for what he termed as “vanity projects.” CHP Division Chief Tony Coronado also expressed concern regarding the unusual occurrence of live-fire exercises taking place over active highways, reflecting their ongoing commitment to public safety.
The artillery round responsible for the incident was fired from an M777 Howitzer, a type of artillery that has seen use in various military conflicts. As the investigation unfolds, further details about how such an incident could occur during a public demonstration are anticipated, with a focus on ensuring that safety protocols are stringently followed in any future exercises.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Live-Fire Military Exercise Accidentally Hits CHP Vehicle
Marine Corps Investigates Live-Fire Incident Over Freeway
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Los Angeles Times
- ABC News
- Axios
- KTLA
- Wikipedia: Marine Corps
- Google Search: Marine Corps live fire demonstration California
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marine Corps
- Google News: Military exercises in California
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
