The US Marine Corps is investigating an artillery shell explosion over Interstate 5 in California after a live-fire demonstration went awry, prompting Vice President JD Vance and top officials to attend the event. The incident occurred during the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebration, which also included beach landings and naval exercises. No one was injured, but shrapnel from the exploded shell caused damage to nearby vehicles.
The investigation is looking into a possible fuze failure as the most likely cause of the detonation. Marines had previously deemed this a “one-in-a-million” possibility before it occurred. The incident has sparked tension between the Trump administration and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused the President and Vice President of prioritizing a “show” over public safety.
The Marine Corps launched six artillery shells from an M777 howitzer on Camp Pendleton, two defense officials said, citing anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. The incident has also led to criticism from lawmakers, including Democratic senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, who called the event a “reckless threat” to Californians’ safety.
The Marine Corps is reviewing its safety protocols after the incident, which occurred during a rehearsal Friday night that included significantly more live artillery rounds than the final demonstration. The investigation will be overseen by the 11th Marine Regiment, with Maj. Gen. Thomas B. Savage reviewing the findings.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/10/20/marines-interstate-5-live-fire-explosion