BOISE — Transportation Security Administration officials discovered two firearms in the carry-on luggage of two travelers departing Idaho airports over the past few days.
Both firearms were detected during the routine screening in the security checkpoint.
On Friday, July 5, about 8:55 a.m., a TSA officer working at Idaho Falls Regional Airport discovered a loaded Taurus 9 mm G2C semi-automatic handgun in the carry-on of a man traveling to Las Vegas. The firearm was loaded with 12 rounds of ammunition, according to a TSA news release.
On Monday, July 8, at about 11:55 a.m., a TSA officer working at the Boise Airport found loaded Smith & Wesson M & P Shield 9 mm in the carry-on luggage of a man heading to Chicago. The gun was loaded with five rounds of ammunition, the release said.
In both cases, when the TSA officer saw the image of the firearm on the X-ray screen, airport law enforcement was notified and responded to the security checkpoint.
The travelers were interviewed and the weapons were confiscated. The incidents have been referred to the Bonneville and Ada County Prosecutor’s Offices for review.
“These two firearm discoveries a few days apart should serve as a reminder to all travelers to check the contents of your luggage prior to coming to the airport to ensure you don’t bring prohibited items to the security checkpoint,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Idaho Andy Coose. “Many of the items that are prohibited in carry-ons are allowed in checked luggage. Take a few minutes to pack properly -- and legally -- for your trip.”
TSA has discovered eleven gunsthis year at Idaho airports including one at Idaho Falls and nine in Boise.
Nationally, TSA officers have discovered 2,243 firearms in carry-on luggage. Of that total, 1,953 were loaded with at least one round of ammunition.
