A 19-year-old was tragically killed and a firefighter was injured in a series of explosions fueled by vape part supplies
A devastating industrial explosion followed by a fire decimated a building in Clinton Township on Monday night, leading to tragic casualties and extensive damage. Chopper footage revealed a scene of destruction, with the once-intact building now reduced to twisted metal and debris.
The incident occurred near 15 Mile and Groesbeck at approximately 9 p.m., claiming the life of a 19-year-old who was struck by a projectile from the explosion while located a quarter mile away. The building, housing a company known as Goo, a supplier of vape parts, contained large quantities of butane and propane, contributing to the ferocity of the explosions.
Fire Chief Tim Duncan described the aftermath of the explosion, highlighting the challenge faced by fire crews as they battled the blaze and contended with hundreds of smaller explosions from canisters within the building. These canisters, filled with nitrous oxide and butane, became dangerous projectiles, with one even piercing the windshield of a fire truck, injuring a firefighter. Another pedestrian was injured by debris from a propane tank.
Despite the peril, the fire department managed to extinguish the main fire after midnight, though they continued to address residual flames. The fire chief acknowledged the incident as one of the most challenging fires the department has faced in years, noting the damage inflicted on several police vehicles and firetrucks by the exploding propane.
The explosion has left the community in shock, mourning the loss of a young life and grappling with the aftermath of the industrial disaster. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion and assess the full extent of the damage and impact on the local area.