Chester man stopped at RIC checkpoint with loaded gun

A Chester man is facing a fine of up to $15,000 after the Transportation Security Administration found a loaded gun in his carry-on luggage at Richmond International Airport Aug. 13.

The .22-caliber revolver was found to be loaded with six bullets, with six hollow-point bullets packed inside. TSA officers discovered the gun as the man entered a security checkpoint.

“Our officers continue to intercept guns at our checkpoints and I’m proud of the way they continue to stay focused on the mission,” TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond Airport Robin Burke said. “The most firearms our team has caught in a single year was in 2022 when 24 firearms were intercepted. As of today, we sit at 23 guns detected. It is very concerning that gun owners continue to bring their firearms to our checkpoints. Responsible gun owners always know where their firearms are, and they know not to bring them to a checkpoint.”

The penalty for carrying a concealed weapon can stretch up to $15,000, even for those with a concealed gun permit. TSA reserves the right to issue civil penalties to travelers with guns at security checkpoints.

Passengers are only allowed to travel with firearms if the guns are checked in their luggage. For more information on how to travel safely with a firearm, visit the TSA website.