Incident at Palm Springs International Airport

A 30-year-old U.S. Marine was detained on Monday afternoon at Palm Springs International Airport after security personnel discovered a live 25mm explosive round in his checked baggage. The individual has been identified as Ryan Weaver, a resident of Henderson, Texas.

Investigation and Disposal

According to Palm Springs police, Weaver informed officers that he had discovered the device in a field one year ago and decided to keep it. He claimed to have believed the item was inert. Upon inspection, the round appeared rusty and corroded, with its original paint markings no longer visible, making it difficult to immediately identify as a high-explosive device.

The Riverside County Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was called to the scene to conduct an examination. Using X-ray technology, the team determined that the round was indeed live. The bomb squad subsequently transported the device to a remote desert area, where it was safely detonated.

Potential Charges and Consequences

Following the incident, Weaver was detained and later released into the custody of military authorities. The Palm Springs Police Department stated that the case will be submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for the consideration of charges related to the possession of a destructive device.

In addition to potential criminal charges, Weaver may face the following consequences:

  • Administrative action by the United States Marine Corps.
  • Possible civil penalties issued by the federal government.