A U.S. Marine was detained at Palm Springs International Airport on Monday after authorities said airport security personnel discovered a live explosive round in his checked baggage.
The ordnance, later confirmed to be a live 25 mm explosive round, was found by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel in the individual’s checked baggage during the screening process around 12:05 p.m. PDT, according to a statement from the Palm Springs Police Department.
The Marine reportedly told police that he found the round “in the field” about a year ago and kept it because he did not believe it was live.
“Due to extensive rust and corrosion, the round’s original identifying paint markings were no longer visible, making it difficult to determine whether it was an inert training munition or a live explosive device,” police said.
The Riverside County, Calif., bomb squad responded to the scene and examined the round using X-ray technology, determining it was live and not a training round. The ordnance was taken to a deserted area south of Interstate 10 and destroyed. No injuries were reported.
The case was referred to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for further review regarding possible criminal charges under a California statute that prohibits possession of “any destructive device.”
The Marine was released to military authorities and could face potential administrative action. He may also face potential civil penalties from TSA, according to police.
A Marine Corps spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday that the 1st Marine Division, based out of Camp Pendleton, Calif., was aware of the incident but declined to provide further information, citing a pending investigation.
TSA did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment.
Updated at 8:17 p.m. EDT
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