TAMPA, Fla. – Security officers made a “surprise discovery” at Tampa International Airport when they uncovered a deadly weapon hidden in an unusual place, according to TSA officials earlier this month.
In a release, the agency said that the item — a hidden knife inside of a baseball bat-shaped flashlight — was found during a routine screening in a passenger’s carry-on bag at a TSA checkpoint.
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Per the agency, TSA officer Andrew Carter noticed that the flashlight looked unusual on the X-ray screen and sent the bag for additional inspection.
Supervisory TSA Officer Michael Slaughter searched the bag and felt something hidden beneath its lining, the release notes. Inside, he found a toiletry kit and the small flashlight. When he twisted the flashlight’s handle, it came apart and revealed a 4-inch, double-edged knife built into the handle.
Slaughter immediately contacted other TSA supervisors, airport management and Tampa Airport Police.
The passenger initially said he did not know the knife was in the bag. However, after police arrived, he reportedly said he had placed the item beneath the suitcase lining to save space.
TSA officials said the way the knife was hidden raised concerns about whether the passenger had intentionally tried to conceal it.
The passenger was arrested and was not allowed to travel, officials added. However, the passenger’s identity was not disclosed in the release.
TSA officials noted that passengers who bring knives to security checkpoints are sometimes allowed to voluntarily surrender the items and continue their trips. However, law enforcement decisions depend on the circumstances, the passenger’s statements or behavior, local laws and the officer’s assessment.
TSA managers praised the officers for working together and communicating throughout the incident.
“This ranks among the most unique items I have identified,” Carter said, calling it a “good catch.”
