Tulsa, Oklahoma — An Oklahoma man has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder after an explosion at a marijuana extraction facility killed two employees and damaged nearby businesses, authorities said.
Prosecutors say 35-year-old Ryan Bassham owned Solos Extracts, where the early Thursday explosion partially tore the roof from the building and scattered debris across an industrial park near Tulsa.
The victims, Michael Newman and Stephen Scott, both worked for Bassham. Prosecutors allege the men were unlawfully manufacturing hazardous chemicals when the explosion occurred. Newman reportedly told a paramedic that the area lacked proper ventilation and that the blast happened after he unplugged equipment.
Investigators said the facility contained large quantities of liquid propane and other hazardous materials. A fire marshal who inspected the site in January had found an outdated fire suppression system and equipment associated with marijuana manufacturing.
Court records also indicate a neighboring business owner previously complained of elevated carbon dioxide levels inside the building and said he became lightheaded after entering.
Bassham surrendered over the weekend and was released after posting a $2 million bond. Court records did not immediately list an attorney representing him.
Medical marijuana is legal in Oklahoma, but extraction facilities are subject to licensing, safety and hazardous-material requirements.
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