UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is expressing outrage after an artillery shell detonated prematurely over Interstate 5 during a Marine Corps training exercise on Saturday. The incident, which occurred as part of celebrations for the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, has drawn sharp criticism from Newsom towards former President Donald Trump and current Vice President JD Vance.
No injuries were reported, but shrapnel struck two vehicles, including one from Vance’s motorcade. Newsom’s press office highlighted the potential danger, stating, “The shrapnel that hit CHP (California Highway Patrol) vehicles came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing.” The office attached a photo of the explosive device, emphasizing the serious implications of the event.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Newsom condemned Trump and Vance, declaring, “If you want to honor our troops, open the government and pay them.” He had raised concerns about the live-munitions demonstration last week after reports surfaced about its planning.
Vance’s team and Republican California Representative Darrell Issa dismissed Newsom’s warnings, asserting that the Marine Corps labeled the exercise as safe practice. “Gavin Newsom wants people to think this exercise is dangerous,” said William Martin, Vance’s communications director. “The Marine Corps says it’s an established and safe practice.” Issa accused Newsom of undermining military operations by closing the freeway.
However, the situation escalated when a 155-millimeter shell exploded over the closed highway, prompting Newsom’s office to demand accountability. “You accused the Governor of overreacting when he closed a portion of the freeway to protect the public,” the press office stated, urging apologies to “all Americans.”
The California Highway Patrol confirmed that metal shrapnel hit one of its vehicles, and a motorcycle from Vance’s security detail was also affected. “This was an unusual and concerning situation,” said CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado. “It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.”
The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which led the demonstration, announced it is investigating the incident. They maintained that comprehensive rehearsals are conducted to ensure safety during operations. “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week,” they stated, emphasizing the regiment’s trust in their systems.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications of this incident could resonate beyond California, raising questions about military training practices near civilian areas. Newsom’s vocal criticism highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal leaders, especially concerning public safety in military exercises.
Expect further developments as official responses from Vance and Issa are awaited, and the Marine Corps clarifies the circumstances surrounding this dangerous malfunction.
