HOUSE EXPLOSION CAUSED BY DRUG PRODUCTION

Drug preparation was to blame for an explosion and fire that rocked an
Amherstburg home last month, police said Monday.

Two men, ages 22 and 23, are facing charges in connection with the
explosion on the night of Jan. 30 at 84 Mickle Dr.

Acting Sgt. Tom McWhinnie said the pair were preparing cannabis resin,
also known as hash oil.

The pair were using butane in the preparation of the oil, causing the
blast, which originated in the bathroom of the home.

"It (butane) is very unstable when you start using it inside," said
McWhinnie.

"That's what they were doing."

The pair found a recipe for making hash oil on the Internet but did
not follow the instructions properly, McWhinnie said.

A Google search of the words "make hash oil" reveal several websites
with instructions on how to make the substance from hashish and marijuana.

The instructions emphasize the importance of adequate ventilation
while cooking the drug.

The two men suffered burns to their arms, hands and face and were
taken to Windsor Regional Hospital for treatment.

They have been released from hospital but remain heavily
bandaged.

The 42-year-old mother of the 22-year-old man was asleep in a bedroom
of the home and was uninjured.

The home sustained damage in excess of $100,000, with all four walls
buckled and the structure lifted from the foundation.

The pair are facing charges of arson disregarding human life, arson
damaging property and producing an illegal substance.

Both are scheduled to appear in court in March and April and will not
be named until their arraignment.