UPDATE: An artillery shell fired during a Marine Corps demonstration detonated prematurely over California’s Interstate 5, striking a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle with debris. This alarming incident occurred on October 18, 2025, during a live-fire event at Camp Pendleton, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The live-fire demonstration was part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration at Red Beach. The incident unfolded while CHP officers were conducting a traffic break on I-5, prompting immediate concern for public safety. The live shell detonated mid-air, leading to significant damage to the patrol car.
CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado, an active Marine, emphasized the unusual nature of the event, stating, “It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.” In light of this incident, the Marine Corps has been notified, and additional live-fire demonstrations have been canceled as a precaution.
Authorities are currently investigating the situation. CHP spokesperson Capt. Gregory Dreibelbis confirmed the Marine Corps is looking into the premature detonation of a 155mm artillery round outside the designated impact area. He assured that the demonstration underwent a rigorous safety evaluation with multiple redundancy layers to protect citizens. Following this incident, “firing was suspended,” he added.
In response to the incident, California Governor Gavin Newsom had previously closed the affected section of I-5 as a precaution. He criticized the decision to conduct the demonstration over a civilian route, stating, “Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong – it’s dangerous.” Newsom called out former President Donald Trump for prioritizing ego over public safety, highlighting a long-standing feud between the two political figures.
“This could have killed someone,” Newsom stated, reinforcing the grave implications of the event. His office released a statement on social media, expressing relief that the governor’s closure of the freeway prevented potential casualties.
As the investigation unfolds, CHP has filed an internal report on the incident, recommending an after-action review to enhance coordination among federal, state, and local governments for future demonstrations and training events near public roadways. The focus remains on ensuring that safety protocols are strengthened to prevent such dangerous occurrences in the future.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for stringent safety measures during military demonstrations, especially when they occur in proximity to civilian areas. The public’s safety must remain the top priority in all military training exercises.
Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to investigate this serious incident.
