News Summary
A live-fire military exercise by the U.S. Marine Corps over Interstate 5 in San Diego caused shrapnel to hit a California Highway Patrol vehicle linked to Vice President JD Vance’s detail. Thankfully, there were no injuries, but the incident raised safety concerns and criticism from Governor Gavin Newsom about the coordination of military exercises over populated areas. An investigation is ongoing to address the risks associated with such operations in close proximity to public roadways.
San Diego, California – A live-fire military exercise conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps over Interstate 5 resulted in shrapnel striking a California Highway Patrol (CHP) protective detail for Vice President JD Vance on Saturday. The incident raised significant safety concerns just after the vice president had been escorted to a Marine Corps event at Camp Pendleton.
During the exercise, shrapnel from an artillery round detonated prematurely, hitting a CHP patrol vehicle and causing minor damages. Specifically, a piece of shrapnel that measured about 2 inches by 2.5 inches created a small dent and scratch on the vehicle’s hood. Additionally, small bits of shrapnel impacted a CHP motorcycle that was part of the protective detail, without causing any significant damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
The live-fire exercise occurred near the Las Pulgas Road onramp to southbound Interstate 5 in northern San Diego County, in an area where CHP officers had been ordered to wait after dropping off Vice President Vance. An officer from the protective details described hearing impacts that sounded like pebbles hitting near their position. A piece of shrapnel measuring approximately an inch long also was found near the motorcycle.
In response to the incident, state officers promptly informed the Marines, leading to the cancellation of further live-fire ordnance over the freeway. Additionally, a safety sweep of the area was conducted to ensure no further hazards remained.
Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the live-fire exercise, labeling it “reckless” and asserting that it posed serious risks to public safety. His administration demanded an apology from the Trump administration, citing a failure to coordinate important safety information prior to the event. The White House, however, stated that there were no safety concerns associated with the military display, contradicting Newsom’s claims.
The incident created substantial traffic disruptions, as the freeway had been closed during the exercise, resulting in significant delays for motorists across San Diego and Orange counties. The artillery demonstration was planned to begin at 1:46 p.m., approximately 30 minutes after CHP officers had closed a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 5. The demonstration was expected to last until 1:51 p.m. and included the firing of around 60 rounds.
The artillery responsible for the incident was fired from White’s Beach and was intended to be directed northward. However, it failed to clear the roadway, detonating midflight and causing the shrapnel to land on the freeway. The M777 Howitzer, which is capable of firing 155mm shells over distances greater than 18 miles, was used during the exercise. The event featured the attendance of both Vice President Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, showcasing various aspects of Marine Corps capabilities.
This occurrence is recognized as highly unusual, as live-fire operations over active freeways are not common practice. The CHP Border Division Chief expressed concern over the uncommon nature of the situation, emphasizing the importance of public safety while also respecting military operations. To alert motorists of the ongoing exercise, electronic highway signs indicated “LIVE WEAPONS OVER FREEWAY.”
As the aftermath of this incident unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with military exercises being conducted in proximity to populated areas and active roadways. The discussion surrounding the effectiveness of safety measures and the coordination between military and law enforcement agencies is likely to continue.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Live-Fire Demonstration Raises Safety Concerns in San Diego
Marine Corps Investigates Live-Fire Incident Over Freeway
Coronado Leaders Tour USS Greeneville to Honor Navy Efforts
Concern Grows as Navy SEAL Candidates Face Contaminated Waters in Coronado
North Korea Fires Ballistic Missiles During U.S.-South Korea Drills
Additional Resources
- Newsweek
- Wikipedia: United States Marine Corps
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Search: military exercises California
- The New York Times
- Google Scholar: military exercises public safety
- The Guardian
- Encyclopedia Britannica: military exercise
- Axios
- Google News: JD Vance California incident
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.
