Police detained a Sewickley man at Pittsburgh International Airport after Transportation Security Administration officers discovered his gun at a security checkpoint Wednesday.
Authorities said the man, whose name was not released, told officials that he forgot he had his handgun with him.
The 22-caliber pistol contained 30 bullets.
Police confiscated the weapon and released the man. It was unclear if he would face any charges.
“Forgetting that you have a gun with you is not a mistake that you want to make,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s federal security director for Pennsylvania and Delaware. “For starters, knowing where your gun is at all times is a vital part of being a responsible gun owner. Telling us you forgot that you had it is inexcusable. Travelers are responsible for the contents of their carry-on bags.
”This individual now faces a stiff financial civil penalty.”
Civil penalties for bringing a weapon into a checkpoint can reach up to $15,000, depending on the specific weapon and the circumstances.
Police determine whether a traveler is arrested or issued a criminal citation.
TSA officials have intercepted 12 guns at the Pittsburgh International Airport so far this year.
