Nearly One Month Later, Marijuana Explosion Investigation Continues

It's been just shy of one month since a house explosion was allegedly caused by a marijuana extraction operation on Astle Street, and charges have yet to be filed.

But Tewksbury Police Chief Timothy Sheehan said that may change as the investigation remains open and police are continuing to look at evidence from the incident.

"Detectives are still actively working the case," said Sheehan. "We are working closely with the District Attorney's office."

On March 25 a house explosion caused serious injuries to three people who were transported to area hospitals by medical helicopter.

Fire investigators soon determined that the blast was caused after butane built up during the process of extracting THC from marijuana. An ignition source triggered the butane explosion, leaving the home uninhabitable. 

Though similar incidents are becoming increasingly more regular around the country, this was the first time an explosion caused by marijuana extraction has happened in Tewksbury. 

Because of that, and because of the amount of evidence found at the scene, police are using caution as they proceed with the investigation and possible charges that may result.

"Evidence has been collected and is being analyzed and that process takes time," said Sheehan.