Live explosive round found in Marine’s bag during airport security screening

PALM SPRINGS, CA: A security screening at Palm Springs International Airport triggered a federal response on Monday, March 30, after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers discovered a live 25mm round in a checked bag belonging to a US Marine, according to local authorities.

The munition was flagged during routine baggage screening, prompting an immediate response from airport police, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, and military officials.

The Marine, whose identity has not been released, was detained at the airport. Investigators said he told authorities he had found the item about a year ago and believed it was inactive.

Rust obscures lethal munition markings

Officials said the round showed significant signs of corrosion, which obscured identifying markings typically used to distinguish live ammunition from inert or training rounds.

The 25mm round is commonly associated with heavy weapons systems, including autocannons.

Due to the condition of the device, authorities were unable to determine its status through visual inspection.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit was called in to assess the item using specialized equipment.

EOD technicians conducted X-ray analysis and confirmed that the round contained an active explosive component.

Desert detonation clears the threat

After confirming the munition was live, authorities secured and transported it away from the airport to a remote desert location near Interstate 10. The device was safely destroyed through a controlled detonation.

Officials said no injuries were reported during the incident, and airport operations were not significantly disrupted.

Authorities emphasized that even degraded or corroded ordnance can remain dangerous and should not be handled or transported.

Legal and military reviews underway

Following the incident, the Marine was released to military authorities. The Palm Springs Police Department said the case has been referred to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for review.

The Marine Corps has also initiated an internal review to determine whether any administrative action is warranted. Additionally, TSA officials are evaluating potential civil penalties related to the transportation of prohibited items.

Authorities have not announced any charges as of Tuesday, and the investigation remains ongoing.