Man Arrested With Loaded Semi-Automatic Handgun At Metro Airport

ROMULUS (WWJ) - A Livonia man was arrested after he was caught with a loaded semi-automatic handgun in his carry-on bag at Detroit Metro Airport.

According to the Transportation Security Administration, the man was arrested by Wayne County Airport Police early Sunday morning after the 5.7 mm FNH semi-automatic firearm was detected in an x-ray scan as the man's bag passed along the conveyor belt at a security checkpoint.

TSA officials said the weapon was loaded with an extra magazine with 20 additional rounds in it. This specific gun is known for its body armor-piercing capability, meaning that it is able to penetrate bullet-proof vests, officials said.

TSA officers contacted the Wayne County Airport Police, who responded to the checkpoint, confiscated the gun and took the man into custody on a weapons charge.

The man's name was not released.

Passengers who bring firearms to the checkpoint are subject to possible criminal charges from law enforcement and civil penalties from TSA up to $11,000, officials said.

The TSA wants to remind travelers to check their bags thoroughly before coming to the airport to make they're not carrying any illegal or prohibited items. Travelers are also urged to contact their airline regarding firearm and ammunition carriage policies.

[Get information from the TSA on how to properly travel with a firearm at this link].