- A US Marine was detained at Palm Springs International Airport after TSA personnel discovered a live 25 mm explosive round in his checked baggage on Monday.
- The Marine told investigators he found the round “in the field” approximately a year ago and kept it, believing it wasn't live. X-ray technology confirmed the munition was live, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department said.
- “Due to extensive rust and corrosion, the round’s original identifying paint markings were no longer visible, making it difficult to determine whether it was an inert training munition or a live explosive device,” police wrote in a news release.
- The department’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team took the live round to a desert area, where it was safely destroyed with no injuries reported.
- The Marine was released to military authorities and could face administrative action from the Marine Corps, a potential civil penalty from the TSA, and possible criminal charges following a review by the District Attorney's Office.
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