A Dangerous Display: Live Fire Over Freeway Sparks Outrage

A recent live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton has stirred up quite a bit of controversy. During a celebration for the Marine Corps' 250th anniversary, an artillery shell exploded over Interstate 5, sending shrapnel flying and hitting two California Highway Patrol vehicles. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the incident has raised serious questions about safety and decision-making. The exercise involved firing artillery across the freeway, which is not a typical training location. Usually, live fire training happens within the base's designated ranges. The decision to fire over the freeway was unusual and risky, according to military and public safety officials. The first round failed to clear the roadway and exploded midflight, scattering shrapnel and causing the exercise to be halted. California lawmakers are demanding answers. Rep. Mike Levin and other Congress members sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, asking who made the decision to shoot live artillery over the freeway and how safety risks were planned for. They expressed relief that no one was injured but deep concern about the decision-making process. The incident has deepened the rift between California leaders and President Donald Trump. Some Republicans criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom for closing the freeway during the exercise, while others were frustrated by what they saw as an unorthodox military display meant to impress Trump administration officials. Sen. Catherine Blakespear questioned the purpose of the exercise, stating that it provided no military or community benefit and put the safety of the community at risk. The live fire exercise also caused traffic delays and startled residents who are used to military noise but not exercises over civilian transportation corridors. Miscommunications about the demonstration added to the confusion, with some elected officials saying they weren't informed or invited to the event. The incident has fueled political feuds, with Rep. Darrell Issa complaining about the freeway closure and downplaying the danger of the errant explosion. Meanwhile, Rep. Mike Levin has vowed to keep up pressure for answers and accountability, stating that the administration ignored safety warnings from the Marine Corps.