Artillery Round Detonates Over I-5 During Camp Pendleton Exercise, Damaging CHP Vehicle

During a live-fire demonstration at Camp Pendleton on October 18, 2025, an artillery round prematurely detonated over Interstate 5, causing shrapnel to strike a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle. The incident occurred shortly after 1:45 p.m. during the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th anniversary celebrations.

The CHP had implemented a traffic break along I-5 near Camp Pendleton to accommodate the demonstration. Despite these precautions, the unexpected detonation led to the suspension of further live-fire exercises. No injuries were reported.

CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado expressed concern over the incident, stating, "It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway." He emphasized the importance of ensuring public safety during such events.

The Marine Corps has initiated an investigation into the cause of the premature detonation. A spokesperson confirmed that the demonstration underwent a rigorous safety evaluation and that established protocols were followed. The findings of the investigation will be applied to future training exercises to prevent similar incidents.

Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision to conduct live-fire exercises over a busy highway, describing it as a "profoundly absurd show of force that could put Californians directly in harm's way." He emphasized the need for careful consideration of public safety in planning such demonstrations.