CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A devastating fire and explosions rocked a suburban Detroit building, resulting in the tragic death of one individual. The incident occurred in an area filled with vaping industry supplies, causing gas canisters to travel as far as 2 miles away. Authorities have issued a warning to residents, advising them against handling any debris due to potential hazards it may pose.
Officials are currently in the process of investigating the fire and explosions that took place on Monday night. However, the investigation is expected to be delayed until next week as the building is filled with fallen steel beams that need to be removed using heavy machinery. Clinton Township Fire Chief Tim Duncan explained that the debris is still smoldering within the ruins, but they are hopeful that weekend rain will help extinguish the remaining areas.
Efforts to contain the fire have been ongoing since Monday night, with over 2 million gallons of water poured onto the building. Sadly, a 19-year-old man lost his life after being struck by a gas canister that flew a quarter of a mile away from the building during the chaos. The building in question was reportedly a distributor for the vaping industry called Goo, housing a large quantity of vape pens onsite.
Despite receiving an occupancy permit for retail purposes, Goo had plans for warehousing and distribution that did not align with local zoning regulations. The township’s planning department had informed the company that the building was only approved for retail usage. As investigations continue, a team of fire investigators from various agencies, including the ATF and Michigan State Police, is being assembled.
Authorities are urging residents to refrain from picking up any cannisters or fire debris as they may still pose dangers. Mary Bednar, the director of public services in Clinton Township, mentioned that the EPA has begun collecting potential hazardous materials like vape pens and lithium batteries. Their focus is not only on the site but also on the neighborhoods and areas surrounding the incident. Expectations are that around 20 EPA personnel will be involved in the cleanup efforts in the coming days.