Oklahoma man charged with murder following explosion that killed 2 at marijuana extraction facility.
An Oklahoma man has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder following a significant explosion at a marijuana extraction facility that resulted in the deaths of two employees and caused considerable damage to surrounding businesses. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at Solos Extracts, located near Tulsa, sending shockwaves throughout the local community.
Ryan Bassham, 35, surrendered to authorities over the weekend. The explosion transpired around 1 a.m., leading to the partial destruction of the building’s roof, damaging nearby properties and scattering debris across the industrial park where the facility is situated. After being booked into the Tulsa jail, Bassham was released on a million bond. As of this writing, no attorney has been publicly identified to represent him, and attempts to reach him and the business for comment were unsuccessful.
The victims, identified as Michael Newman and Stephen Scott, had both been employed by Bassham. According to a spokesperson for the Tulsa County district attorney’s office, there are allegations that the employees were engaged in the unlawful manufacturing of hazardous chemicals, which contributed to the explosion.
Reports indicate that the facility was in the process of acquiring an updated marijuana license and narcotics registration, which reflects the state’s legal status surrounding medical marijuana use in Oklahoma. Court documents reveal that Newman communicated with a paramedic while being transported to the hospital, mentioning poor ventilation in the workspace and noting that the explosion occurred shortly after he unplugged equipment. Although he was conscious when paramedics arrived, he succumbed to his injuries later at the hospital.
Investigations into the explosion have uncovered concerning details regarding safety protocols at the facility. A fire marshal had previously inspected Solos Extracts in January and identified an outdated fire suppression system along with equipment commonly used in marijuana manufacturing. Following the explosion, authorities discovered large quantities of liquid propane and other hazardous materials that were not present during the earlier inspection.
Additionally, proprietors of nearby businesses have voiced concerns regarding safety, with one individual recounting a conversation with Bassham about elevated carbon dioxide levels detected in the building, leading to feelings of lightheadedness.
As inquiries continue, the case highlights both the risks associated with the cultivation and extraction of marijuana and the necessity for strict adherence to safety regulations within the industry. The community remains on edge as the legal proceedings unfold and further details come to light.
Media News Source reports that the implications of this tragic incident extend beyond personal loss, raising questions regarding regulatory oversight in a sector that has seen rapid growth amid changing legal landscapes.
