Governor Cites Public Safety Concerns
California Governor Gavin Newsom has temporarily shut down a section of Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton, calling a planned Marines live-fire display “unnecessarily hazardous.” The event, organized to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, was expected to feature artillery and amphibious exercises close to one of the state’s busiest traffic corridors. Newsom said the decision was made out of caution, warning that the use of live munitions near civilian areas could endanger both spectators and motorists.
State Leaders Criticize Federal Coordination
Newsom’s office accused military planners and federal officials of failing to give state agencies proper notice before announcing the event. “California supports honoring our service members, but not at the expense of public safety,” the governor said. His administration claimed the state learned of the demonstration only after preparations were underway, prompting the freeway closure to mitigate potential risks.
Pentagon Pushes Back, Says Event Was Controlled
The U.S. Marine Corps and Department of Defense rejected the governor’s criticism, insisting that all training activities were confined to approved ranges and followed strict safety standards. Federal officials argued that no danger to drivers existed and that traffic disruptions were exaggerated. The temporary closure caused minor delays across the San Diego-Orange County corridor before reopening later in the day once the drills concluded without incident.
