Sammy Kershaw Detained at Airport After TSA Discovers Loaded Firearm in Carry-On, Fined $5,000

GRAMMY-nominated country star Sammy Kershaw is sending a friendly warning to travelers everywhere to double-check your carry-ons before heading to the airport.

According to a new statement from Absolute Publicity, Kershaw was on his way to a string of sold out shows and festival dates across North America when he had an unexpected issue with TSA agents at the Lafayette, LA airport.

Instead of joining his band members, the singer/songwriter was detained after TSA screening flagged a loaded gun that he had packed in his carry-on. The FBI was then called in to address the criminal offense.

Kershaw shared a statement, explaining it was an unfortunate accident that simply occurred due to his grogginess.

“It was early, I was half-awake and clearly not thinking straight,” he explained. “I’ve sang songs about heartbreak and hard times but not about forgetting to check my carry-on for a loaded firearm. That’s a new one!”

Though there was seemingly no ill intent behind the mishap, TSA did not take the incident lightly. Fines for traveling with a firearm in carry-on luggage can reach up to $10,000, and in some cases, even include jail time. Even Kershaw wasn’t exempt from the law, as he ended up being fined a whopping $5,000 for the offense.

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Sammy Kershaw, known for country hits like “Labor of Love,” “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful” and “Queen Of My Double Wide Trailer” used the opportunity to issue a lighthearted, but important, public reminder.

“I guess it’s safe to say I won’t be packing heat to my next show,” he joked. “Let this be your friendly PSA: check your bags, check ‘em twice. Let’s all stay safe out there.”

Despite the disruption, Kershaw’s upcoming shows are expected to continue as scheduled. He has a slew of performances on the books through the remainder of the year, including several fairs and festivals.

Kershaw is next set to take the stage at the Lee Creek Taven in Roland, OK on Friday, June 27 followed by a trip to Fairbank, IA on Saturday, June 28. Fans can also find him at Old Washington Music Fest, Great Jones County fair, Buffalo County Fairgrounds and more.  

Since bursting onto the country music scene in the early ’90s, Sammy Kershaw has built a reputation as one of the genre’s most renowned hitmakers. He’s made a name for himself while proving his devotion to traditional country and storytelling. His resume includes a consistent run of chart-topping records along with a slew of sold-out shows over the years. His albums have have included such classics as “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “I Can’t Reach Her Anymore,” “National Working Woman’s Holiday” and “Love of My Life.” 

Often compared to country icon George Jones, Kershaw remains dedicated to preserving the traditional roots of country music and reviving the spirit that first defined the genre. Jones was so impressed by his vocals even at a young age that Kershaw was often invited to join the legend whenever he was playing in the same area.

His accolades include major award nominations, six Gold and five Platinum albums, millions of records sold around the world, and much more.

When he’s not sharing his talent on the road the Louisiana native finds himself at home, fulfilling his duties as a proud husband, father and grandfather.