W.Va. man indicted for bringing flashbang grenade to Pittsburgh Airport

Zachary Vincent Velling, a 26-year-old man from Morgantown, West Virginia, has been indicted for attempting to bring a flashbang grenade through security at Pittsburgh International Airport on November 12, 2024. The device, identified as a bang/flash grenade, is classified as a firearm and destructive device under federal law, and it was not registered to Velling. His local charges were dismissed in favor of federal charges, which carry a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti emphasized the serious risks posed by attempting to transport such devices through airport security, underscoring federal authorities' commitment to maintaining safe air travel. The TSA reported that 42 firearms were confiscated at Pittsburgh International Airport checkpoints in 2024. Velling's case highlights ongoing concerns regarding airport security and illegal firearms possession.