March 19, 2003

Lansing - Michigan law enforcement and community health officials are issuing a warning that a recent explosion, which killed a man in nearby South Bend, Ind., could easily be repeated in Michigan. Police in Starke County believe an explosion killed Stanley Fugate as he was attempting to cook Methamphetamine in his home. His body was discovered by fire fighters among the remains of a Methamphetamine clandestine operation.

Toxic gas leaks, chemical fires and explosions often occur when manufacturing Methamphetamine. In addition, officials warn that cooking Methamphetamine in both clandestine operations and mobile labs puts the entire community at risk.

"You don’t have to be a Meth cooker or user to be in danger. Anyone in and around an area used to cook Methamphetamine is in extreme danger and can quickly encounter serious health problems, injuries and death," stated Janet Olszewski, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. "Toxic gas leaks, chemical fires and explosions are all associated with clandestine lab sites."

Officials urge anyone who knows someone cooking Methamphetamine or knows of a site being used to cook Methamphetamine to call local authorities IMMEDIATELY or call the Methamphetamine Hotline at 1-866-METH-TIP. All calls are anonymous and confidential.

"What makes Methamphetamine drug situations unique are the serious dangers facing law enforcement officers, first responders, utility workers, mail carriers and health care workers who respond unknowingly to a Methamphetamine scene," stated Tadarial J. Sturdivant, director of the Michigan State Police. "These individuals can be instantly exposed to serious harm with no warning. Individuals entering a Methamphetamine scene can quickly encounter serious health problems and injuries, including serious burns, collapsed lungs and injuries resulting from explosions and fire."

Methamphetamine, also known as "Speed," "Crystal Meth," "Crank" or "Ice" is a powerful central nervous system stimulant and is highly addictive. It is a deadly drug that can be manufactured cheaply and quickly using regular household chemicals. For questions concerning treatment, call the Michigan Department of Community Health’s substance abuse treatment referral line at 1-888-736-0253.

Last year in Michigan, 206 illegal Methamphetamine clandestine cooking operations were seized and destroyed. Already this year, 55 labs have been seized and officials estimate that number will reach more than 300 by the end of the year.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Inspector Dave Bush, Michigan State Police Criminal Investigation Division, (517) 336-6221

Ms. Geralyn Lasher, Michigan Department of Community Health, (517) 241-2112

Read more press releases from the Michigan State Police.