TSA catches second loaded gun in two days at ROA airport

This sets a new record of seven guns caught this year at ROA

Photo of gun seized in Roanoke airport on Sept. 14 by TSA (Credit: TSA) (WSLS)

ROANOKE, Va. – Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stopped a Roanoke County man from bringing a loaded gun through ROA security Wednesday.

The gun was a 9mm found in the man’s carry-on through an X-ray monitor at the security checkpoint.

Recommended Videos



Police confiscated the gun and cited the man on a weapons charge. He also faces a federal civil citation.

The man told officials he forgot the gun was with him.

“Firearms are not allowed at a security checkpoint at any airport,” said Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “We are proud of our officers for ensuring prohibited items are not making it through checkpoints. We much prefer that travelers adhere to checkpoint protocols and either pack their firearms properly and declare them or leave them at home.”

This is the second loaded gun caught at ROA in two days.

A Pulaski County woman was stopped after TSA found a loaded gun in her carry-on bag Tuesday.

TSA at ROA has now caught seven guns so far this year, a new record.

More information about rules regarding traveling with a gun can be found on the TSA website.


About the Author:

Lauren Helkowski joined WSLS 10’s digital team in August 2022, but has held a passion for storytelling long before.