Explosion And Fire Result Of Butane Extraction Of Cannabis Resin – One Airlifted To Hospital

Incident #: WA16091259

Publish Date: Jul 25, 2016

Incident Date: Apr 30, 2016

Location: CHRISTOPHER DR, WATERLOO, ON Canada N2J 4J6

On April 30, 2016 at 4:40 p.m., police received multiple 9-1-1 calls regarding an explosion and fire at a single family dwelling located at 97 Christopher Drive, Waterloo. The house was found to be heavily involved with fire and sustained major damage. A 37 year old male was inside the residence during the explosion and sustained major injuries and burns. He was airlifted to Hamilton burn unit in critical condition. On July 18, 2016, after a joint investigation between Waterloo Regional Police Detectives, the Drug Branch, and the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management – the 37 year old male, Lance Rees, a resident of Wilmot Township was arrested and charged with Production of a Controlled Substance (Cannabis Resin), and Arson – causing damage to property. The owners of the home were not present when this incident occurred and are not believed to be involved in the offences – however the accused is known to them. Investigators believe this fire was caused by the extraction of cannabis resin using butane. Butane is a highly explosive and volatile substance – this incident is an example of the extreme danger involved in manufacturing illegal drugs. The house in question was destroyed by the fire.

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Published: May 3 2016 7:43AM

On April 30, 2016 at 4:40 p.m., police received multiple 9-1-1 calls regarding an explosion and fire at a single family dwelling located at 97 Christopher Drive, Waterloo. The house was found to be heavily involved with fire and sustained major damage. A 37 year old male was inside the residence during the explosion and sustained major injuries and burns. He was airlifted to Hamilton burn unit in critical condition. Police found the back yard scattered with approximately 25 plastic caps from butane canisters and filter papers that had been distributed outside by the explosion. Waterloo Regional Police Drug Branch along with the Ontario Fire Marshalls Office and Waterloo Fire Department are continuing their investigation. It is anticipated that this will take 3-4 days. Criminal charges are pending.

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