WSMV Channel 4 Loaded gun found at BNA security checkpoint

Loaded gun found at BNA security checkpoint

Posted: Updated:
Posted by Scott Sutton - email
Courtesy: TSA Courtesy: TSA
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -

A loaded firearm was found at the security checkpoint inside the Nashville International Airport on Thursday evening, according to the Transportation Security Administration.

At about 5:45 p.m., a .357 Magnum was discovered in a passenger's carry-on bag. Airport police were alerted, took possession of the bag and cited the passenger on a local charge.

This is the fourth firearm discovered at the Nashville airport checkpoint this year, said the TSA. About 40 firearms were found by the TSA at the airport in 2011.

Firearms may be transported in checked baggage if they declared to the airline, in a proper carrying case and unloaded, but they are prohibited in carry-on bags.

"Passengers are responsible for the contents of bags they bring to the checkpoint," said Jon Allen, TSA spokesman. "Our advice is to look through bags thoroughly before coming to the airport to make sure there are no illegal or prohibited items."

Copyright 2012 WSMV (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.