Artillery Shell Hits CHP Car on I-5 After Marine Demo, No Injuries

URGENT UPDATE: An artillery shell detonated mid-air over California’s Interstate 5 during a Marine Corps demonstration, striking a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle. The incident, which occurred on October 18, 2025, has raised serious safety concerns as no injuries were reported, but damage to the patrol car was confirmed.

The live-fire training event at Camp Pendleton was part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration. Authorities reported that the shell detonated prematurely while CHP officers were conducting a traffic break to support the demonstration.

“This was an unusual and concerning situation,” stated CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado, who is an active Marine. He emphasized that it is highly uncommon for live-fire activities to occur over an active freeway. Following the incident, additional live-fire demonstrations were canceled.

Capt. Gregory Dreibelbis, a spokesperson for the Marine Corps, confirmed the investigation is ongoing. “We are aware of the report of a possible airborne detonation of a 155mm artillery round outside the designated impact area during the event,” he said. Dreibelbis reassured the public that the demonstration underwent rigorous safety evaluations to ensure civilian safety, adding that firing was suspended immediately after the incident.

California Governor Gavin Newsom had previously closed the section of I-5 as a precaution. He criticized the decision to conduct the demonstration over a busy highway, stating, “This president is putting his ego over responsibility with this disregard for public safety.” Newsom, who has had a long-standing feud with former President Donald Trump, further remarked, “This could have killed someone.”

The CHP is filing an internal report on the incident, recommending a thorough after-action review to enhance coordination among federal, state, and local authorities for future events. The review aims to strengthen protocols for live-fire demonstrations near public roadways.

This alarming incident highlights the potential risks associated with military demonstrations in civilian areas. As investigations proceed, the community is left questioning the safety measures in place during such events.

Watch for updates as authorities release more information regarding the ongoing investigation and the future of live-fire demonstrations in California.