Governor Newsom Demands Apology After Artillery Shell Incident

URGENT UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is calling for accountability after a 155-millimeter artillery shell detonated prematurely over Interstate 5 during a training exercise for the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary on Saturday. The incident, which occurred in San Diego County, raised serious safety concerns, although no injuries were reported.

In a scathing response on social media, Newsom blasted former President Donald Trump and current Vice President JD Vance for allowing military live-munitions demonstrations to occur over populated areas. Shrapnel from the explosion struck two vehicles, including one from Vance’s motorcade. Newsom’s office shared a photo of the explosive device, emphasizing the potential danger to civilians.

“The shrapnel that hit CHP vehicles over the weekend came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing,” Newsom’s press office stated.

Newsom expressed his outrage, saying, “Donald Trump and JD Vance put lives at risk to put on a show. If you want to honor our troops, open the government and pay them.” The governor had previously raised alarms about the live-fire exercise, which was confirmed to have taken place just days prior.

In response to Newsom’s criticism, Vance’s office dismissed the concerns, insisting that the Marine Corps deemed the exercise safe. Communications Director William Martin told The New York Times, “The Marine Corps says it’s an established and safe practice. Newsom wants people to think this is an absurd show of force.”

However, the California Highway Patrol confirmed that the detonation struck one of its vehicles, with CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado describing the incident as “unusual and concerning.” He emphasized that such live-fire activities over active freeways are highly uncommon, stating, “My foremost responsibility is ensuring the safety of the people of California and the officers who protect them.”

Newsom’s press office reiterated the need for an apology, stating, “You accused the Governor of overreacting when he closed a portion of the freeway to protect the public. And now we learn … live ordinance detonated early.”

The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which hosted the event, announced it is investigating the incident. They maintain that thorough rehearsals were conducted to ensure safety during the demonstration, which is standard practice for their training at Camp Pendleton.

As officials continue to address the fallout from this incident, all eyes are on the responses from Vance and Trump. The situation remains tense, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days. The urgency of ensuring public safety in military exercises is now at the forefront of discussions, with many asking how such a dangerous misstep could happen.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.