UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is demanding accountability from the White House following a shocking incident during a Marine Corps celebration that left vehicles damaged and public safety at risk. An artillery shell detonated prematurely over Interstate 5 on October 7, 2023, during a training exercise commemorating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.
No injuries were reported, but the explosive event hit two vehicles, one belonging to Vice President JD Vance‘s motorcade. Newsom took to social media to express his outrage, declaring, “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.”
Newsom’s press office shared a photo of the artillery device, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident. “The shrapnel that hit CHP (California Highway Patrol) vehicles… came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing,” the statement read. This alarming breach of safety has raised significant concerns about the use of live ammunition over populated areas.
The controversy erupted after Newsom initially flagged the event last week, warning that live missiles were to be used in a display of military might. Following the explosion, his administration is now insisting on apologies from Trump and Vance. “You accused the Governor of overreacting when he closed a portion of the freeway to protect the public,” Newsom’s office stated. “And now we learn … live ordinance detonated early.”
In response, Vance’s office dismissed Newsom’s claims, asserting that the Marine Corps deemed the exercise safe. Communications director William Martin told The New York Times, “The Marine Corps says it’s part of routine training at Camp Pendleton.” However, the incident has sparked calls for a review of safety protocols during military exercises.
California Highway Patrol Chief Tony Coronado noted, “This was an unusual and concerning situation. It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.” His statement highlights the potential dangers posed to civilians and law enforcement during such operations.
The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which conducted the demonstration, has confirmed it is investigating the incident. They maintain that rehearsals were carefully executed to ensure safety. “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week… We trust this system with our lives,” they stated.
As this situation develops, residents are left questioning the safety measures in place during military operations, particularly when they occur above heavily trafficked highways. Newsom’s demands for accountability resonate with a public eager for assurances about their safety in the face of military activities.
NEXT: All eyes are on the investigation outcome and whether the Marine Corps will implement stricter safety protocols to prevent future incidents. The public is calling for transparency and a commitment to ensuring that military exercises do not jeopardize civilian safety.
