Gun found at pittsburgh airport checkpoint leads to charges against monroeville man
Pittsburgh International Airport

Gun found at Pittsburgh airport checkpoint leads to charges against Monroeville man

A routine morning at Pittsburgh International Airport was interrupted Friday when a firearm was discovered inside a passenger’s carry-on bag, prompting a law enforcement response and criminal charges.
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1 min read
July 18, 2026

PITTSBURGH, PA – County police said the incident unfolded at 6:37 a.m. Friday when Transportation Security Administration officers identified a handgun during screening at a security checkpoint. The discovery led to an immediate alert to Allegheny County Police, who responded and began an investigation at the scene.

According to a statement from the Allegheny County Police Department, “At 6:37 am on July 17, Transportation Security Administration officers observed a handgun within a passenger’s carry-on bag at the security checkpoint of Pittsburgh International Airport and alerted Allegheny County Police.”

Passenger identified and charged
Officers identified the passenger as 33-year-old Richard Perez of Monroeville. Investigators determined that Perez did not have a valid concealed carry permit at the time of the incident.

Police confirmed, “County Police identified the passenger as 33-year-old Richard Perez and determined Perez did not possess a valid concealed carry permit. Perez is charged with carrying a firearm without a license.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation was also notified following the discovery.

Federal penalties possible for airport violations
Officials reiterated that bringing a firearm into an airport security checkpoint can carry significant financial penalties at the federal level. The Transportation Security Administration enforces civil fines that can reach up to $10,000 for a first offense.

The department noted, “Passengers who bring firearms into an airport security checkpoint can face federal civil fines from the Transportation Security Administration up to $10,000. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $13,910.”

The case remains under investigation, and no additional details about Perez’s travel plans or intent have been released.

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