Marine Corps Artillery Shell Prematurely Detonates Over California I-5, Strikes CHP Vehicle

During a U.S. Marine Corps live-fire demonstration at Camp Pendleton, an artillery shell prematurely detonated over Interstate 5, sending shrapnel that struck and damaged a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle. The freeway had been temporarily closed, and CHP officers were supporting a traffic break at the time of the incident, with no injuries reported. CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado, himself a Marine, described the event as highly uncommon and concerning, emphasizing the priority of public and officer safety. The Marine Corps was promptly notified, leading to the cancellation of subsequent live-fire exercises over the freeway, and the area was cleared and inspected for debris. Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision to conduct the firing over a busy freeway, calling for improved safety and coordination. CHP has recommended an after-action review to improve planning, communication, and coordination among federal, state, and local agencies for future training events near public roadways.