Rock star accused of bringing loaded gun to Atlanta airport

Rock star Rick Derringer was detained at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport for having a loaded gun in his carry-on bag in a secure area, according to officials.

The Grammy-winning "Rock & Roll Hoochie Koo" singer was on his way back to the United States from Mexico on Monday night when TSA agents found the gun, Channel 2 Action News reported.

Federal law bans weapons on planes or in carry-on luggage.

Derringer, 69, was heading to a connecting flight to Florida, where he has a valid concealed weapons license, when a TSA supervisor noticed a gun magazine in the X-ray of his bag. The agent found a Kel-Tec .380 handgun and 12 rounds, Channel 2 reported.

The FBI has taken over the investigation.

About the Author

Ellen Eldridge

Atlanta airport flyers, staff celebrate freedom — from travel headaches

Despite hundreds of thousands flying through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Fourth of July weekend, airport staff and travelers experienced few issues.

1h ago

Buddy Carter says grandchildren safe after being at flooded Texas summer camp

U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter of St. Simons Island said his grandchildren are safe but they lost a cousin in the flash flooding from the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, Texas

1h ago

Atlanta leaders eye trails as part of solution to city’s traffic woes

The 535-mile expansion plan, known as Trails ATL, aims to make the city more walkable, bringing 10-minute access to trails for 95% of city residents by 2052.

The Latest

Credit: Gray Mollenkamp