UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is demanding accountability from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance after an artillery shell detonated prematurely during a Marine Corps celebration, striking vehicles on Interstate 5 on Saturday. The incident, which occurred during the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary training exercise, has raised serious safety concerns as no injuries were reported, but shrapnel affected two vehicles, including one from Vance’s motorcade.
Newsom took to social media to express his outrage, stating, “The shrapnel that hit CHP vehicles over the weekend from Trump and Vance’s military live-munitions demonstration came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing.” His press office shared a photo of the device, emphasizing the risks involved. “This is what the White House thought was fine to fly over civilians on a major freeway,” they added.
The governor continued his criticism, asserting, “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.” This incident follows Newsom’s prior warnings about the Marine Corps’ use of live missiles, which he described as a potential danger to the public.
Republican representatives, including Vance’s communications director, William Martin, dismissed Newsom’s concerns, claiming that the Marine Corps deemed the exercise safe and routine. Martin told The New York Times, “Gavin Newsom wants people to think this exercise is dangerous,” while Rep. Darrell Issa accused Newsom of undermining military expertise by closing a major highway for the event.
However, after the shell detonated, Newsom’s office issued a stern challenge for an apology from Vance and Issa, 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, striking a vehicle on a closed portion of the highway during the event. Without a doubt an apology is owed — to not just Californians, but all Americans.”
The California Highway Patrol confirmed that metal shrapnel impacted one of their vehicles, while reports noted that a motorcycle from Vance’s security detail was also affected. CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado described the incident as “an unusual and concerning situation,” highlighting the unlikelihood of live-fire training over an active freeway.
The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which conducted the demonstration, stated it is currently investigating the incident. They emphasized that safety rehearsals were carried out to ensure “success at every phase of execution.” The Marines stressed their commitment to safety, noting that artillery training occurs regularly at Camp Pendleton.
As this story develops, the implications of this incident remain significant, raising questions about military operations and public safety. Newsom’s response indicates a potential escalation in political tensions as officials seek clarity and accountability in the aftermath of a dangerous misfire. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
