Improperly Checked Gun Causes Delay On Hectic Day At Newark Airport

NEWARK, NJ — Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Newark Airport recently arrested a traveler who tried to bring a handgun onto his flight, causing a delay for passengers on one of the most hectic days in the agency’s history, authorities said.

Sunday was the ninth-busiest day in the TSA’s history of screening travelers at Newark, and was marked by a wave of flight delays and cancellations due to the weather. And the last thing that commuters needed was to face yet another slowdown, authorities said.

Here’s what happened, authorities said:

“When the TSA officer at Newark spotted a 9mm handgun in the checkpoint X-ray machine, Port Authority police were alerted, came to the Terminal C checkpoint, confiscated the gun and interviewed the traveler, a resident of Las Vegas, before arresting him on a weapons charge.”

The weapon wasn’t loaded, officials said.

It was the third firearm that officers have confiscated at a security checkpoint at Newark Airport this month, the TSA stated.

When someone shows up at a checkpoint with a firearm, the lane comes to a standstill until police can resolve the incident, authorities said.

“Summer travel season is in full swing and our airport is extremely busy,” said Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director for New Jersey.

“Carrying prohibited or illegal items to security checkpoints slows down the security lines for everyone,” Carter said. “If you’re flying this summer, it is vitally important to know that the items you have in your carry-on bag are allowed through our security checkpoints.”

“My best advice is that when you’re ready to pack, start with an empty bag so you know with certainty what you’ve got inside and you know that there is nothing prohibited in a side pocket, zippered pouch or just in the bottom of your bag,” Carter continued. “That goes for backpacks, roller bags, handbags, messenger bags and duffle bags.”

“Firearms should never be brought to the security checkpoint in carry-on luggage,” Carter emphasized.

• See Related: Severe Flight Delays At Newark Airport; More Ugly Weather Lurks Ahead

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