UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is demanding accountability from the White House following a shocking incident where an artillery shell detonated prematurely during a Marine Corps celebration on Saturday. The event, marking the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps, turned dangerous when the shell exploded over Interstate 5, striking vehicles and prompting immediate outrage.
Authorities confirmed that although no injuries occurred, two vehicles were hit by shrapnel, including one belonging to Vice President JD Vance‘s motorcade. Newsom’s press office expressed their outrage on social media, sharing a photo of the device and stating, “The shrapnel that hit CHP (California Highway Patrol) vehicles… came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing.”
Newsom took to X to criticize both Donald Trump and Vance, stating, “If you want to honor our troops, open the government and pay them.” The governor had raised alarms earlier last week after reports surfaced that live missiles would be used in the training exercise. His concerns have been validated by the recent explosive event, which has intensified his call for an apology from the White House.
The California Highway Patrol confirmed that shrapnel from the detonation impacted their vehicles, with a motorcycle in Vance’s security detail also affected. CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado described the incident as “an unusual and concerning situation,” emphasizing that live-fire training over an active freeway is highly uncommon. “My foremost responsibility is ensuring the safety of the people of California,” Coronado stated.
The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which conducted the demonstration at Camp Pendleton, is currently investigating the incident. They maintained that rehearsals were rigorously conducted to ensure safety during operations. “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week,” they noted, emphasizing their trust in the systems used.
In response to the incident, Vance’s office and Republican California Rep. Darrell Issa dismissed Newsom’s concerns. William Martin, Vance’s communications director, claimed the Marine Corps deemed the exercise safe and routine. However, Newsom’s office countered, insisting that an apology is owed “to not just Californians, but all Americans.”
As tensions escalate, the incident raises serious questions about safety protocols during military exercises in populated areas. The ramifications of this event are still unfolding, and concerned citizens will be watching closely for further developments. As of now, both Vance and Issa have not responded to requests for comment, and the White House remains silent.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
