CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MI – A tragic explosion at a building in Clinton Township last month has resulted in manslaughter charges against the building’s owner, as confirmed by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office. The incident took the life of a 19-year-old bystander and caused significant damage to the surrounding areas.
The explosion, which occurred at the Select Distributors facility on March 4, led to a chain of events that ended in a young life being lost. Police reported that the building, owned and operated by Noor Noel Kestou, 31, contained a large amount of Nitrous oxide and butane, ultimately causing the devastating blast.
Kestou now faces charges of involuntary manslaughter, a serious offense that could carry a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison. With his bail set at $500,000, Kestou awaits his next court appearance scheduled for May 7. Additional restrictions have been imposed on him, including wearing a GPS tether, surrendering his passport, and refraining from any weapons possession.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido expressed condolences for the victim’s family, emphasizing the pursuit of justice for the tragic loss. The impact of the explosion was felt far and wide, with residents in neighboring areas hearing the loud blasts and feeling the tremors in their homes.
In the aftermath of the explosion, emergency responders evacuated nearby homes and businesses as they worked to contain the blaze and manage the potentially hazardous debris. The destructive force even reached the extent of damaging police and fire department vehicles in the vicinity.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of the young bystander and seeks accountability for the events that led to such a devastating outcome. The repercussions of the explosion serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures and proper handling of potentially dangerous materials.