California lawmakers demand answers on live artillery fire over Golden State highway

Over two dozen California lawmakers on Wednesday sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling for answers on how a live fire demonstration over Camp Pendleton over the weekend led to a misfire that rained shrapnel on a highway.

Vice President JD Vance, Hegseth, Navy Secretary John Phelan, and Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith were at the Marine base on Saturday for an event titled "America’s Marines 250: From Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength," which celebrated the Marines 250th anniversary.

The event included a live-fire amphibious assault demonstration over Interstate 5, which saw shrapnel hit at least two California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicles, prompting questions about preparation for the event and coordination with state and local officials.

"While we are relieved no one was injured, we are deeply concerned by the decision-making that led to this incident," the lawmakers, led by California Democratic Rep. Mike Levin, wrote. "CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado – who is also a Marine – added that 'it is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway.'"

The lawmakers asked the Defense Department and Marines who made the decision to hold the demonstration over one of the state's busiest highways, whether any other damage was caused by the misfire, and who would pay for damages.

"The State of California prides itself on its strong relationship between Marines and neighboring communities," the lawmakers wrote. "Maintaining public safety has been a central pillar of that relationship, which is built on trust and confidence. Our Marines deserve to be celebrated without compromising these ideals."

The coalition, which came from 26 lawmakers and Democratic California Sens. Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla, asked for Hegseth to respond to the letter by Oct. 29.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.