82 fireworks, 3 knives, 2 replica firearms and canister of pepper spray found in single carry-on bag at LAX, officials say

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — An alarming discovery was made Sunday at LAX in the middle of the busy holiday travel season, one that the Transportation Security Administration said “surprised even the longest-tenured and most experienced TSA officer.”

According to the agency82 consumer fireworks, three knives, two replica firearms and a can of pepper spray were found in a single carry-on bag.

The items were found around 10pm at Terminal 4 when a TSA officer saw the items on the X-ray.

The bag belonged to a woman who was headed to Philadelphia, according to the TSA. Los Angeles World Airport police responded and interviewed the woman, but no further information was released.

“The large number of prohibited items found in a single carry-on bag is extremely concerning,” said LAX TSA Federal Security Director Jason Pantages. “This traveler should have followed TSA’s tried and true advice – unpack your bag before you pack it to make sure you don’t bring prohibited items through security. We’re in the middle of the holiday travel season when security will be busy. Let this incident serve as a reminder to all travelers to double-check the contents of your bag before arriving at the airport.”

The department’s bomb squad confiscated the fireworks.

The TSA issued a reminder to travelers, saying fireworks are never allowed on board a flight in carry-on or checked baggage.

The agency said knives and replica firearms should be placed in checked baggage.

A 4-ounce container of pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage, provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. However, some airlines do not allow pepper spray, so travelers are encouraged to contact the individual airline.