ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – TSA officers at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport have announced that a man with a loaded gun attempted to cross a security checkpoint and board a plane on April 3.
According to the TSA, on Wednesday, an unidentified Roanoke man was entering a security checkpoint with a carry-on bag. As he entered the x-ray unit, a loaded 9mmm handgun was allegedly found containing nine rounds.
This firearm was detected by TSA officers at a Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport security checkpoint on April 3. (TSA photo)
Police were then notified, and the firearm was seized. The man was given a citation for a weapons charge and faces a possible civil penalty of up to $15,000.
“I would like to acknowledge my appreciation to the TSA officers at Roanoke who acted to ensure that this traveler did not retain control of his loaded weapon,” said Robin “Chuck” Burke TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “Bringing a loaded gun to an airport security checkpoint introduces unnecessary delays to fellow travelers and of course represents a security risk. Our TSA officers remain vigilant during this busy spring break season to help ensure everyone can travel safely.”
In 2023, 5 firearms were seized at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. This was the first firearm seized by TSA officers in 2024.
WFXR News will update you with more information as it becomes available.
