Bill Russell Arrested In Seattle Airport On Gun Charges

The 79-year-old Celtics Hall of Famer was arrested at a security checkpoint Wednesday night at Sea-Tac International Airport for allegedly bringing a loaded handgun into a prohibited area. Russell had a permit for the gun and was later released, but still, what the hell?

Russell’s .38-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun was found at a security checkpoint Wednesday evening during routine screening of carry-on baggage, TSA spokeswoman Lori Dankers said in a statement. Russell was cited by Port of Seattle police on a state charge, she said.

Passengers can travel with a gun in checked baggage if declared at check-in and unloaded and stowed in a hard, locked container. Russell, apparently, did not do so and tried to carry it on, which is never permitted. In addition to the cited state charge, Russell could face a civil fine levied by the TSA that could range from $3,000 to $7,500.

The Celtics plan to unveil a statue of Russell at City Hall Plaza prior to the home opener against the Milwaukee Bucks on November 1st.

I'm not sure if any of this would make more or less sense if Morgan Freeman were the one who got himself arrested.

Photo credit: Getty

Police: NBA legend Bill Russell had gun at airport [KIRO]