A shell detonated over Interstate 5 in Southern California during a high-profile Marine Corps anniversary event on Saturday, prompting immediate safety concerns from state officials. The incident occurred just miles from Camp Pendleton, where Vice President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were attending the ceremony .
Table of Contents
- What Happened During the Shell Incident?
- Governor Newsom’s Pre-Event Warning
- Public Safety and Interstate Disruption
- Military Response and Ongoing Investigation
- Sources
What Happened During the Shell Incident?
According to California Highway Patrol and military sources, a live artillery shell—part of a ceremonial demonstration—misfired during the Marine Corps 250th anniversary event at Camp Pendleton. The round arced over the base perimeter and detonated in the air above a stretch of Interstate 5 near Oceanside around 11:30 a.m. local time .
Thankfully, no injuries were reported. However, the explosion caused momentary panic among motorists, with several vehicles pulling over. Debris from the blast landed in a nearby field, and Caltrans temporarily slowed traffic as a precaution.
Governor Newsom’s Pre-Event Warning
The mishap has reignited scrutiny over safety protocols for military demonstrations near populated areas. Notably, Governor Gavin Newsom had raised concerns just days before the event, urging the Department of Defense to review live-fire elements due to the proximity of I-5—one of the nation’s busiest freeways .
“While we honor our Marines with the deepest respect, public safety must never be an afterthought,” Newsom said in a statement issued Sunday. “This incident validates the need for stricter risk assessments.”
Public Safety and Interstate Disruption
Interstate 5 carries over 200,000 vehicles daily through North San Diego County. The unexpected detonation—even without ground impact—highlighted the potential for catastrophic consequences had wind or trajectory differed slightly.
Local residents reported hearing a loud “boom” and seeing smoke plumes. Social media quickly lit up with videos of the blast, many captioned with alarm. Caltrans confirmed no structural damage to the roadway, but the psychological impact on drivers remains a concern for transportation officials.
Military Response and Ongoing Investigation
The U.S. Marine Corps has launched an internal investigation into the misfire. A spokesperson confirmed the shell was part of a planned 21-gun salute using howitzers, a tradition for major commemorations. Preliminary findings suggest a rare barrel malfunction caused the round to veer off course .
Defense Secretary Austin expressed regret over the incident during a press briefing, stating, “We are committed to full transparency and will implement any necessary changes to prevent recurrence.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Highway Administration is coordinating with the Department of Defense to review safety buffers for future military events near federal highways.
