A Sunday evening explosion, which Police say was triggered by a drug manufacturing operation in a residence on Third Street, blew out the front window of a home and sent three people to the hospital for treatment of burns.
According to Police Lieutenant Matt Wood, officers from the Susanville Police Department responded to a residence in the 1700 block of Third Street at about 6:30 Sunday evening after receiving a report of an explosion. Upon arrival officers located significant damage to the front of the home, including a large window entirely detached from the front wall residence.
Officers quickly evacuated several people who were standing in front of the residence before working with the Susanville Fire Department to locate and identify further public safety issues.
“During the service of a subsequent search warrant at the residence,” explained Lieutenant Wood, “officers located several items used for the manufacturing of concentrated cannabis. This type of operation is commonly referred to as a ‘Honey Oil’ lab.”
The explosion sent two adults and one teenager to Banner Lassen Medical Center. The two adults were subsequently flown to U.C. Davis Medical Center Burn Unit for further treatment. Their names are being withheld pending the conclusion of the investigation.
“Butane hash oil labs are becoming a major public safety concern in our communities”, said Police Chief Tom Downing. “We have responded to at least two such explosions in recent months after the highly flammable butane gas used in this extraction process has exploded causing fire and serious injuries to the participants. If you see something suspicious, please report it to the authorities.”
The Susanville Police Department is actively investigating this case and following up on any leads. If anyone observed or heard anything just prior to the explosion, they are encouraged to contact the Susanville Police Department at (530) 257-5603 or at 1801 Main Street. You can remain anonymous if you wish.
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