Watertown International Airport TSA finds smoke grenade in passenger bag

During a routine security screening at Watertown International Airport in upstate New York, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers discovered a spent M18 smoke grenade hidden inside an aerosol container.

TSA Officer Yessenia Alvarez identified the suspicious item while operating an X-ray machine, noting that the container looked unusual. Lead Officer Melissa Graffam inspected the side pocket of the passenger's carry-on bag and confirmed the item was a smoke grenade. When questioned, the passenger claimed he had forgotten the item was in his bag.

Acting supervisor Debra Alcock notified explosives experts, who confirmed the grenade was not live. TSA officials noted that while the item was spent, such objects can still pose risks and cause significant travel disruptions and law enforcement responses.