Artillery Shell Strikes CHP Car on I-5 During Marine Demo

UPDATE: An artillery shell detonated over California’s Interstate 5, striking a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle during a Marine Corps demonstration on October 20, 2023. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the patrol car sustained significant damage, officials confirmed.

The incident occurred as CHP officers were facilitating a traffic break during the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration at Camp Pendleton, specifically over an area known as Red Beach. Authorities reported that the live artillery round detonated prematurely in mid-air, creating a dangerous situation for both officers and motorists.

“We are aware of the report of a possible airborne detonation of a 155mm artillery round outside the designated impact area,” said Capt. Gregory Dreibelbis, a spokesperson for the Marine Corps. He emphasized that the demonstration underwent a stringent safety evaluation and that firing was immediately suspended following the incident.

In response to the alarming event, CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado, an active Marine, stated, “This was an unusual and concerning situation. It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.” The CHP has filed an internal report recommending an after-action review to improve coordination among federal, state, and local agencies for future events.

California Governor Gavin Newsom had proactively closed a section of I-5 before the demonstration, citing safety concerns. Following the incident, he criticized the decision to conduct live-fire exercises over a busy highway. “This could have killed someone,” Newsom remarked, expressing outrage at what he described as reckless use of military power.

“This president is putting his ego over responsibility with this disregard for public safety,” he added, referring to former President Donald Trump, who scheduled the demonstration. The ongoing feud between Newsom and Trump, particularly over military deployments and immigration policies, has fueled public scrutiny of the event.

The Marine Corps is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the premature detonation and has canceled additional live-fire demonstrations pending the outcome of this investigation. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided.

Residents and travelers are urged to stay informed as authorities assess the implications of the incident and enhance safety protocols for future training exercises near public roadways. This incident highlights the critical need for stringent safety measures when conducting military demonstrations in close proximity to civilian traffic.

Stay tuned for more breaking news on this developing story.