A US Marine was detained at Palm Springs International Airport after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel discovered a live 25mm explosive round in his checked baggage, police said.
The round was found during routine screening on Monday, according to the Palm Springs Police Department. The Marine told investigators he found the round 'in the field' about a year ago and kept it, believing it was not live.
Due to extensive rust and corrosion, the round's original paint markings were no longer visible, making it difficult to determine if it was an inert training munition or a live explosive. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department explosive ordnance disposal team used X-ray technology to confirm it was live.
The team transported the round to a desert area near Interstate 10, where it was safely destroyed. No injuries were reported. Police submitted the case to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office for review of potential violations and criminal charges.
The Marine was released to military authorities and could face administrative action by the US Marine Corps and a potential civil penalty through the TSA.
