During a festive Marine Corps celebration in southern California, a routine ceremonial artillery firing went awry when a shell exploded prematurely over a busy freeway. The unexpected blast caused immediate traffic chaos, forcing authorities to swiftly close multiple lanes for safety assessments and emergency response. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the event sparked widespread concern and highlighted the risks tied to military demonstrations conducted near public infrastructure.

Authorities have initiated a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the malfunction. Initial reports suggest that a misfire or mechanical fault in the artillery system may have led to the early detonation. Meanwhile, officials emphasize the importance of safety protocols during such events and have announced steps to enhance coordination between military units and civilian traffic…