Dwight Howard Caught With Loaded Gun in Bag at Houston Airport

Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks airport officials have really heightened their level of security making it extremely difficult to enter an airport with even a can of hair spray, let alone a loaded firearm. Which is why it's puzzling to learn that NBA player Dwight Howard walked into a Houston airport and was caught by screeners with a loaded gun in his bag.

According to TMZ, who released a report on Wednesday Sept. 2, "[the] NBA superstar was stopped at George Bush Airport in Houston on Aug 28" when security scanners spotted a loaded Glock 26 9mm inside of his carry-on bag. According to the site, the gun was loaded with one chamber but Howard will not face any charges. Howard was detained and claimed that he simply forgot the gun was in his bag. The police were called to the airport but were told upon arrival that Howard was in the clear and he was allowed to get back in the security line to try it again. Ultimately, he was allowed to board a later flight.

ESPN reported, "after being detained by law enforcement officials he was allowed to give the handgun to an associate." Howard currently plays Center for the Rockets who released a statement about the incident citing "the team was aware of the incident and still gathering information" as reported by ESPN. Houston Police Department spokesperson Kese Smith explained that it's not unusual for passengers to show up at the airport with firearms.

As cited by ESPN "Smith said guns are periodically found at both of Houston's main airports, Bush and William P. Hobby -- 77 were discovered in the past year -- and that few charges are filed or arrests made." Texas, like most states, has concealed firearm permits and people are allowed to carry a concealed handgun with the proper license. However, it is a Federal regulation that they cannot board a plane with the firearm.

Ultimately, a warning was issued to Howard to be more aware of what's in his bag before trying to board a plane.