Bag containing ‘suspicious’ skull shuts down airport baggage screening for nearly 2 hours

Skull in Checked Baggage Prompts TSA Security Scare

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials encountered an eerie surprise when they discovered a skull inside a piece of checked baggage, raising security concerns. According to a TSA press release issued on Friday, what initially appeared to be a “suspicious item” prompted alarm among airport security personnel.

Unsettling X-Ray Image

The TSA officers, examining the X-ray image on their screen, were met with the unsettling sight of a skull-like object containing mysterious components. The press release noted, “The item resembled an improvised explosive device.”

This incident unfolded around 8 a.m. on September 18 at the Salt Lake City International Airport, causing a two-hour delay in the screening of checked baggage as authorities probed the potential security threat.

Swift Response by Authorities

TSA promptly alerted the SLC Police Airport Division, who collaborated with an explosives specialist and a trained explosive detection canine to address the situation.

The passenger in possession of the skull clarified that it was a medical training device, meant for spine and neurosurgeons, and utilized for teaching lobotomy procedures. The device included a plastic skull, putty, a 9-volt battery, and a sensor.

Transportation Complications

The traveler intended to transport the device to a trade show in Cancun, Mexico, but TSA regulations prohibited its carriage on a commercial aircraft. Consequently, TSA officials confiscated the item, allowing the passenger to retrieve it upon returning to Utah.

Prioritizing Safety

TSA Federal Security Director for Utah, Matt Davis, emphasized the importance of taking every potential security threat seriously, while ensuring that the transportation system’s safety remains uncompromised. He commended the professionalism of all involved parties in swiftly resolving the matter, allowing for the timely resumption of airport operations.

Passenger Responsibility

In light of this incident, passengers who plan to carry unique or potentially concerning items are encouraged to contact a TSA supervisor or manager upon arriving at the airport. This proactive step allows TSA to assess and streamline the screening process, mitigating any unnecessary delays. Passengers can also seek assistance through TSA’s social media channels or the TSA Contact Center before embarking on their journeys.