On Saturday, metal debris from an explosive device that detonated prematurely hit a law enforcement vehicle in California during an event where Vice President J.D. Vance was present.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the occurrence in a statement shared with digital outlets. The incident took place near Camp Pendleton, a Marine Corps base in San Diego County.
This shrapnel was ejected while CHP officers were managing a road closure on Interstate 5, coinciding with Vance’s visit to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps.
The exact timing of the incident remains unclear. CHP indicated that it happened “during an unusual U.S. Marine Corps live-fire training demonstration on the highway” and at a spot where they had set up a traffic stop during that training.
No injuries were reported. CHP officials notified the Marines, who, according to the statement, “stopped additional live fire on the highway.”
CHP Border Director Tony Coronado described the situation as “unusual and alarming.” He noted that such live ammunition and training exercises occurring on active highways is quite rare.
“As a Marine myself, I respect our military partners greatly, but my top priority is to ensure the safety of Californians and the officers protecting them,” Coronado added.
In the wake of this, CHP has filed an internal report and suggested a thorough review of planning and communication among federal, state, and local governments be conducted. This is intended to enhance procedures for similar events near public roadways.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the situation, stating on social media that President Donald Trump and Vance are “risking their lives to put on a show.” He further asserted that honoring the military should involve paying them, not staging events.
At this point, Vance’s office has been contacted for comments regarding the incident.
