Nashville, Tenn. (June 23, 2025) — Country music star Sammy Kershaw experienced an unexpected detour recently — not on tour, but at airport security in Lafayette, Louisiana, after unknowingly carrying a loaded firearm in his luggage.

The incident occurred on May 28 as Kershaw was en route to a series of sold-out shows and festival appearances across North America. While going through TSA screening, his bag was flagged, leading to the discovery of a loaded handgun. Federal authorities, including the FBI, were notified to address the violation.

“It was early, I was running on autopilot, and clearly didn’t double-check my carry-on,” said Kershaw. “I’ve written songs about heartbreak and hard times, but this is a new kind of verse — accidentally packing a pistol isn’t exactly chart-topping behavior.”

The Transportation Security Administration takes these incidents seriously. In Kershaw’s case, he was fined $5,000 for the offense — a costly reminder that even seasoned travelers can make mistakes.

“I definitely won’t be packing heat to the next show,” Kershaw added. “So let this be your friendly PSA: always check your bags — and check them twice. Stay safe out there.”

Despite the mishap, Kershaw remains focused on his tour and reconnecting with fans across the country, with a little more attention to what’s in his luggage.

About Sammy Kershaw

Since emerging on the country music scene in the early 1990s, Sammy Kershaw has remained a mainstay with a string of major hits and platinum-selling albums. Known for songs like “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “I Can’t Reach Her Anymore,” and “Love of My Life,” Kershaw has sold millions of records worldwide. Often seen as a torchbearer for traditional country, he continues to inspire fans with his authentic sound and dedication to preserving the genre’s roots.