Massive Fire and Explosions Rock Clinton Township, Resulting in Teen’s Death
A tragic incident unfolded on Monday in Clinton Township, Michigan, as a massive fire engulfed a building, leading to explosions that resulted in the death of a teenager and injury to a firefighter. The building, which housed Goo Smoke Shop and Select Distributors, was not supposed to have butane and nitrous oxide tanks. Local officials expressed their shock and disappointment at the illegal and dangerous activities occurring within the premises.
The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, but it has been revealed that the fire was caused by the explosion of canisters containing butane and nitrous oxide, as well as lighter fluid, vape pens, and other related products. The canisters, measuring 12-18 inches and weighing 10-15 pounds, caused significant damage and posed a serious threat to the safety of those in the vicinity.
Township Supervisor Bob Cannon expressed his frustration, stating, “Those who applied for permits for the site…ended up doing something that is clearly not only illegal but immoral and dangerous.” He emphasized that if township officials had known about the presence of these hazardous materials, they would have taken immediate action to address the violation.
According to Township Fire Chief Tim Duncan, two business owners were interviewed by the fire prevention division and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. However, no one has been taken into custody as of Tuesday morning. The investigation is expanding, and authorities are determined to uncover the full extent of the incident.
Barry Miller, the township building department superintendent, explained that during the inspection in September 2022, there were no canisters present in the back room of the building. The fire department also conducts inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Miller stated that there are allowable quantities for certain substances stored on site, and the owners did not exceed those limits during the inspection. However, the recent events revealed that the owners had stored a significantly higher quantity than permitted.
Township officials confirmed that they were aware of the presence of vape products in the building but were unaware of the butane and nitrous oxide canisters. They emphasized that the approved use of the location was strictly for retail purposes and not for hazardous materials storage.
The repercussions of this incident extend beyond the loss of life and property damage. Township officials, determined to hold the responsible parties accountable, plan to reach out to the state for emergency funding. They are also working closely with law enforcement to collect any relevant evidence that could aid in the investigation.
Concerns about the safety of air and water in the area were addressed by Paul Brouwer, Clinton Township emergency management coordinator. He confirmed that both air and drinking water were deemed safe, and all schools operated as usual on Tuesday. The county’s emergency management conducted tests on air quality, which revealed no hazardous substances apart from smoke.
The incident also caused damage to several police and fire trucks, including a ladder truck. Debris from the explosions resulted in flat tires and other forms of damage. Crews are currently working to clear the debris and reopen railroad tracks in the area.
Residents are urged to check their property for any debris or damage, especially on rooftops. The Michigan State Police bomb squad has offered assistance in handling any potential hazardous materials that may still be present in the area.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of the teenager who tragically lost their life due to this incident. The Clinton Township officials are determined to learn from this devastating event and ensure that such dangerous activities are prevented in the future.
