A Transportation Security Agency (TSA) screener at Atlanta airport has been fired after allegedly allowing a loaded handgun to pass through security unnoticed in a passenger’s carry on bag over the weekend.
According to an Atlanta police incident report obtained by WSB-TV Channel 2, a female passenger from Alabama discovered the handgun as she checked her purse for her passport while at the terminal gate. The report states the passenger then self-reported the discovery to nearby a police officer, who quickly called additional officers to the area before confiscating the weapon and the woman’s bag.
She claimed to be a concealed permit holder in Alabama, but allegedly said she had forgotten to bring it with her on her trip. Though, it is doubtful the permit would have made any difference. Federal law prohibits passengers from taking firearms in airport security areas.
The woman was taken into custody and charged with unlawful possession of a handgun.
[image via shutterstock]