UPDATE: An artillery shell fired during a U.S. Marine Corps demonstration detonated prematurely, raining debris on a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle on October 20, 2025. The incident took place over Interstate 5, raising serious safety concerns and prompting a thorough investigation.
The live-fire event at Camp Pendleton was part of the Marine Corps’ 250th Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration, showcasing military capabilities. As officers supported a traffic break on the busy highway, a 155mm artillery round exploded mid-air, damaging the patrol car but miraculously leaving officers unharmed.
CHP officials confirmed the incident, emphasizing the unusual nature of such activities occurring over an active freeway. “
This was an unusual and concerning situation
,” stated CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado, who is also an active Marine.
The Marine Corps has been notified, leading to the cancellation of additional live-fire demonstrations. In a statement, spokesperson Capt. Gregory Dreibelbis noted that an investigation is underway, stating, “
We are aware of the report of a possible airborne detonation of a 155mm artillery round outside the designated impact area
.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom, who had closed the section of I-5 as a precaution, criticized the demonstration, asserting, “
This could have killed someone
.” He condemned the decision to conduct live-fire exercises over a civilian route, stating, “Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous.”
The CHP has initiated an internal report recommending an after-action review to bolster coordination among federal, state, and local agencies for future events. Governor Newsom’s office echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential risks involved in such military demonstrations over populated areas.
As this situation develops, authorities are calling for immediate reassessments of safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. The public and local officials are demanding transparency and accountability as investigations proceed.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
