CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A tragic incident unfolded in Clinton Township, Michigan, as a fire and multiple explosions at a wholesale distributor resulted in one fatality. Fire Chief Tim Duncan confirmed the death, stating that the victim was struck by debris from the explosions, occurring approximately a quarter-mile away from the site.

Intense Blasts Rock Macomb County

The explosions, emanating from the Goo and Select Distributors building located at 15 Mile and Groesbeck, reverberated across neighboring areas such as Mount Clemens and Sterling Heights. Residents reported feeling their homes shake as debris, including metal canisters, was hurled in various directions.

Contents of the Building Unveiled

Chief Duncan disclosed that the explosions were triggered by nitrous tanks, butane, lighter fluid, and over 100,000 vape pens containing lithium batteries stored within the building. Notably, the initial cause of the fire remains unknown, dispelling earlier speculations of a marijuana grow operation explosion.

Violations Detected

Barry Miller from the city’s building department revealed that the business possessed a certificate of occupancy but was not authorized to store nitrous oxide or butane canisters. Subsequent inspections did not uncover the extent of hazardous materials present in the building, indicating regulatory oversights.

Safety Concerns and Aftermath

The aftermath of the explosions left a firefighter injured and a 19-year-old civilian fatally wounded by flying debris. Homes and businesses in proximity were evacuated as shrapnel scattered over a wide radius, posing continued risks to public safety. The scene remained hazardous, with large metal canisters strewn about, some potentially containing gas.

Investigative Efforts and Community Response

Authorities are investigating the incident, focusing on determining the trajectory of projectiles and assessing the full extent of damage. Witnesses recounted harrowing experiences, emphasizing the magnitude of the explosions and the chaos that ensued. Environmental monitoring is underway to address any potential hazards to air and water quality.

Advocating for Safety Measures

The Clinton Township explosions underscore the critical importance of stringent safety regulations and thorough inspections to prevent such tragedies. As investigations continue, it’s imperative for communities and authorities to collaborate in implementing robust measures to safeguard against similar incidents in the future.

Source