Governor Newsom Demands Apology After Artillery Shell Incident

UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom is calling for an apology from former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance following a frightening incident during a Marine Corps training exercise on October 14, 2023. An artillery shell detonated prematurely over Interstate 5, striking two vehicles, including one in Vance’s motorcade, but miraculously causing no injuries.

The explosive incident has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Newsom, who took to social media to express his outrage. “The shrapnel that hit California Highway Patrol vehicles from Trump and Vance’s military live-munitions demonstration is no small thing,” Newsom’s press office stated, attaching a photo of the device. The incident raises serious safety concerns as it occurred over a busy highway during what was meant to be a celebratory event for the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.

Newsom’s anger escalated as he reposted his office’s criticism, stating, “Donald Trump and JD Vance put lives at risk to put on a show. If you want to honor our troops, open the government and pay them.” His comments reflect mounting frustration over the decision to conduct live-fire exercises in such close proximity to civilians.

The controversy began last week when MeidasTouch reported that the Marine Corps planned to use live munitions for the event. After the shell detonated, Newsom urged that the exercise was irresponsible and dangerous. In response, Vance’s communication director, William Martin, dismissed the governor’s concerns, asserting that the Marine Corps deemed the practice safe and routine.

Republican Rep. Darrell Issa also sided with Vance, accusing Newsom of undermining military leadership by closing the highway for safety reasons. However, Newsom’s office firmly rebutted this claim, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. “You accused the Governor of overreacting when he closed a portion of the freeway to protect the public. And now we learn … live ordnance detonated early,” they stated on X.

The California Highway Patrol confirmed that shrapnel struck one of its vehicles during the incident. CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado expressed concern: “This was an unusual and concerning situation. It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.”

The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which orchestrated the demonstration, is investigating the incident. They maintained that proper preparations were made for the exercise, stating, “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week,” and emphasized the importance of safety during such operations.

As the situation unfolds, the fallout from this incident continues to resonate. Newsom’s demand for accountability highlights the tensions between state officials and federal leadership regarding military operations and public safety.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: Watch for further statements from Vance and Issa’s offices, as well as any potential repercussions from the Marine Corps regarding safety protocols. Newsom’s strong stance may also influence public opinion on military exercises conducted near civilian areas.

This alarming incident has raised critical questions about safety protocols during military exercises, especially in populated areas. As investigations proceed, the focus will remain on ensuring that such dangerous situations do not occur again.