United Airlines Passenger Removed After Loaded Gun Found at Chicago: Video**
**CHICAGO, IL —** Chaos erupted at Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Tuesday morning when Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers discovered a loaded firearm in a passenger’s carry-on bag during routine security screening. The incident, captured on video by bystanders, shows the tense moments as authorities swiftly intervened, leading to the passenger’s removal from the flight and subsequent arrest.
### **The Discovery**
The ordeal began around 7:15 a.m. at Terminal 1, where United Airlines Flight 1477 to Denver was preparing for boarding. As passengers moved through the security checkpoint, TSA agents flagged a suspicious item in a traveler’s backpack during X-ray screening.
“The image clearly showed the outline of a handgun,” said TSA spokesperson Lisa Johnson. “Protocol was immediately followed—the bag was pulled for inspection, and sure enough, there was a loaded 9mm pistol inside.”
The passenger, identified as 42-year-old Daniel R. Mercer of suburban Naperville, claimed he had forgotten the weapon was in his bag. “I was in a rush this morning and didn’t even think to check,” Mercer can be heard saying in the video, which has since gone viral on social media. “I usually keep it in my glove compartment. This was a complete accident.”
### **Passenger Reactions**
Eyewitnesses described a scene of confusion and alarm as TSA agents and Chicago Police Department officers surrounded Mercer.
“One second, everything was normal, and the next, there were officers with their hands on their holsters,” said Sarah Lin, a fellow passenger. “People started backing away. No one knew if this was a mistake or something more serious.”
Another traveler, Mark Torres, recorded part of the incident on his phone. The footage shows Mercer being escorted away by authorities while repeatedly apologizing. “I swear, I didn’t mean to bring it,” he insists in the video.
### **Law Enforcement Response**
Chicago Police confirmed that Mercer was detained without incident and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm in a secure airport area—a federal offense that can result in hefty fines and possible jail time.
“Even if this was an honest mistake, the law is clear,” said CPD Sergeant David Ruiz. “Firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-ons. Passengers must declare and properly store any weapons in checked baggage, following airline and TSA guidelines.”
Mercer was released later in the day on bail, but his court date is pending. Meanwhile, United Airlines issued a statement confirming that he was removed from the flight and rebooked for a later time—without the firearm, of course.
### **TSA Reminds Travelers of Firearm Rules**
This incident marks the 12th firearm discovered at O’Hare security checkpoints this year, part of a troubling nationwide trend. In 2023, TSA officers intercepted over 6,700 guns at airports across the country—a record high.
“The majority of these cases are people claiming they ‘forgot,’ but that doesn’t make it any less dangerous,” Johnson said. “A loaded gun in a cabin is an unacceptable risk.”
TSA guidelines require firearms to be:
– **Unloaded**
– **Packed in a locked hard-sided case**
– **Declared at the airline check-in counter**
Failure to comply can result in fines up to $15,000 and permanent loss of TSA PreCheck eligibility.
### **Social Media Frenzy**
The video of Mercer’s detainment has sparked heated debate online. Some commenters sympathized, calling it an “innocent mistake,” while others argued that gun owners should be more responsible.
“If you own a gun, you should know where it is at all times,” tweeted user @SafeTravels2024. “No excuses.”
Meanwhile, Second Amendment advocates criticized the handling of the situation. “He wasn’t a threat, just a guy who messed up,” wrote @ConstitutionalRights on Instagram. “This is why people don’t trust TSA.”
### **What Happens Next?**
Mercer’s legal team has indicated they will argue for leniency, citing his clean record and immediate cooperation. However, federal prosecutors may push for a stricter penalty as a deterrent.
For now, the incident serves as yet another reminder for travelers to double-check their bags before heading to the airport. As TSA’s Johnson put it: “When in doubt, empty your bag and look. It’s not worth the trouble.”