Pubdate: Fri, 15 Oct 2004
Source: Chilliwack Progress (CN BC)
Copyright: 2004 The Chilliwack Progress
Contact:  http://www.theprogress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/562
Author:  Jennifer Feinberg

A FLAMMABLE LIQUID USED TO MAKE MARIJUANA OIL IS THOUGHT TO BE THE
CAUSE OF AN EXPLOSION

A flammable liquid used to make marijuana oil is thought to be the
cause of an explosion on Kenswood Drive last week, says RCMP drug
section head Cpl. Norm Leger.

Police say the blast caused serious structural impacts to the house
and damages are estimated at about $50,000.

Three people were allegedly making pot or hash oil in the house on
Oct. 8, when the butane used in the process rose up the wall. The
liquid ignited and caused an explosion, Cpl. Leger says.

A window was blown clear off into the backyard and a patio door was
pushed out of its frame with the force of the blast, police say. Three
people sustained first- and second-degree burns from the explosion,
mostly to their arms and hands. One of the three was the homeowner.

"These three individuals are very lucky to be alive given the severity
of the explosion," says media liaison Cpl. Sean Sullivan. One of the
three remains in hospital.

But due to a lack of evidence at the scene following the explosion,
RCMP officials say they are unable to lay charges at this time.

"It's unlikely the homeowner will be covered by insurance because of
the illegal nature of the activity," Cpl. Sullivan says. "Any illegal
activities will void your coverage."

He says due to the considerable structural damage, City of Chilliwack
staff was called in to inspect the premises. Any city involvement will
be in relation to a health and safety bylaw that covers nuisance,
noxious or offensive trades.

Don't try this at home.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin