Clinton Township, Michigan – Clinton Township fire officials announced on Friday that the site of the recent explosion and fire near Groesbeck Highway and 15 Mile Road is still too hazardous for direct access by investigators. Chuck Champagne, the Fire Marshal of Clinton Township, stated that the investigative team, which includes various agencies like the ATF and Michigan State Police, is expected to begin their on-site investigation next week.
Fire Chief Tim Duncan emphasized that despite the delay in the on-scene investigation, progress is underway through video surveillance, interviews, and drone technology. The fire department has been utilizing drones to monitor the scene and collect essential footage for mapping the area affected by the explosion. The former Save-A-Lot grocery building at 19100 15 Mile Road, which housed Goo vape and smoke shop, exploded on March 4, causing damage up to two miles away.
The explosion led to a local state of emergency being declared in the township. Efforts to determine the cause of the fire and subsequent explosion have been impeded by the unsafe conditions at the site. Structural steel from the collapsed building needs to be removed before investigators can proceed, as there is a risk of additional explosions once the steel pieces are disturbed.
City officials, led by Supervisor Robert Cannon, are committed to uncovering the cause of the explosion and holding those responsible accountable. The building where the explosion occurred was not zoned for industrial use and lacked the necessary permits to store hazardous materials like nitrous oxide and butane. As investigations continue, residents are cautioned against handling any debris from the blast to avoid potential harm.
As the cleanup efforts progress, the community is focused on repairing the extensive damage caused by the explosion. Despite the challenges faced by investigators and first responders, there is a collective determination to ensure the safety and well-being of Clinton Township residents. The tragic loss of Turner Lee Slater, who was fatally struck by debris from the explosion, serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of the incident.
In the midst of the ongoing investigations and cleanup operations, the community remains resilient in the face of adversity and tragedy. With a commitment to thorough investigation and accountability, Clinton Township is striving to recover and rebuild from the aftermath of the explosion.