Vice President JD Vance’s motorcade was struck by metal fragments from a shell that detonated prematurely during a Marine Corps live-fire demonstration at Camp Pendleton, California, officials said.
The New York Times reported that the incident occurred on Saturday during an event marking the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. A 155-millimetre shell exploded ahead of schedule, scattering shrapnel over a motorcycle escorting Vance’s convoy and a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle travelling on Interstate 5.
The CHP confirmed that metal debris from an explosive device detonated overhead, calling the situation “unusual and concerning.”
“It is highly uncommon for any live-fire or explosive training activity to occur over an active freeway,” CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado said. “As a Marine myself, I have tremendous respect for our military partners, but my foremost responsibility is ensuring the safety of Californians and the officers who protect them.”
No injuries were reported, and the Marine Corps immediately suspended firing after the explosion. The First Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton announced an investigation into the incident, stating that the demonstration had undergone a “rigorous safety evaluation” and that it was committed to identifying the root cause.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Vance said he had “a great visit” with the Marines and praised their enthusiasm. His office did not respond to questions about the detonation.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticised Vance and former President Donald Trump, calling the event “reckless” and “a vanity project.”
We love our Marines and owe a debt of gratitude to Camp Pendleton, but next time, the Vice President and the White House shouldn’t be so reckless with people’s lives for their vanity projects.https://t.co/vQ3epSTvyh
— Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) October 19, 2025“Donald Trump and JD Vance put lives at risk to put on a show,” Newsom wrote on X. “If you want to honour our troops, open the government and pay them.”
Newsom had previously voiced concerns after reports suggested the Marines planned to fire live missiles during the demonstration. Vance’s office had dismissed those reports, describing the exercise as routine and denying that Interstate 5 would be closed.
The First Marine Expeditionary Force said rehearsals had been conducted to ensure safety. “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week,” it added. “We trust this system with our lives.”