A West Virginia woman was stopped at a Pittsburgh International Airport security checkpoint Wednesday after the Transportation Security Administration discovered a loaded .380-caliber handgun in her carry-on.
The gun was loaded with seven bullets, including one in the chamber, according to TSA.
This was the 33rd firearm detected at Pittsburgh International checkpoints this year, one shy of last year’s record of 34. Last year, the TSA reported 4,239 firearms found in carry-on bags across the U.S., a 7% increase from 2017.
TSA contacted Allegheny County Police, confiscated the gun and detained the woman for questioning. TSA spokeswoman Lisa Farbstein said the agency did not know why the woman was trying to fly with the gun.
People who try to bring a gun through airport security can face criminal charges, even with a concealed carry permit. TSA also can fine offenders up to $13,333 for weapons violations.
