Detroit, Michigan – The aftermath of Monday night’s fire and explosions in Clinton Township has left officials unable to start investigating due to the risk of another explosion, Township Supervisor Bob Cannon revealed on Friday. The site is still too warm for examination, with concerns that the presence of containers on site could potentially cause harm if ignited.
Cannon expressed the township’s intentions to hire a professional equipped with heavy machinery to cautiously maneuver the metal structure of the building where debris and canisters lie beneath. The hope is that by mid to late next week, investigators can begin sifting through the aftermath of the devastating incident that occurred at a vape supply facility on 15 Mile, causing a series of explosions and claiming the life of 19-year-old Turner Lee Salter.
Clinton Township Fire Chief Tim Duncan remarked that it will be a prolonged process before officials can delve into the origins of the fire and subsequent explosions. He outlined the necessary steps to be taken, including the removal of heavy debris, intermittent investigations, fire suppression, and allowing time for the area to cool before reentry – a task he described as quite the undertaking.
With the assistance of 20 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency personnel, cleanup efforts outside the fire location have been initiated. The team is focusing on clearing debris while ensuring proper disposal methods are adhered to. Duncan disclosed that approximately two million gallons of water have been utilized in attempting to contain the aftermath, with 1.3 million gallons used on the night of the explosion alone.
Clinton Township Emergency Management Coordinator Paul Brouwer emphasized the shared objective of uncovering the truth behind the tragic event, underscoring the importance of transparency and thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. As the township grapples with the aftermath of the incident, the collaborative efforts of various agencies and officials are essential in navigating the recovery process and seeking accountability.