Two minors allegedly brought large military-grade munitions to O’Hare International Airport Monday, sparking the evacuation of a baggage room and a response from police and FBI.
Transportation Security Administration officers at O’Hare Airport spotted two military-grade shells in the checked baggage of two minors, who were part of a field trip returning from London, according to a release from TSA.
FBI and Chicago Police officers evacuated the baggage room until the items could be clears as "inert" and interviewed the two minors.
“As a reminder, large munitions are not permitted to be brought on board airplanes, in carry-on or checked baggage,” TSA said in a statement. “Small arms ammunition, including under .75 caliber and shotgun shells, can be packed in checked baggage in accordance with airline policies.”
The teens told law enforcement they obtained the shells at a French World War I artillery range. It was not clear how.
TSA explosives experts believe they are French 77 mm shells.
They were seized Monday evening while the teens were transferring to a flight to Seattle.
The teens were questioned then allowed to travel onward. They weren't charged.
