The owner of a Michigan company that exploded in March, killing a 19-year-old and injuring a firefighter, was charged with involuntary manslaughter after attempting to flee the country with a one-way ticket to Hong Kong. The Clinton Township Police Department revealed that Noor Noel Kestou, 31, tried to leave the U.S. following the fatal explosion at his vape and smoke business, Goo Smoke Shop/Select Distributors, on March 4. Authorities found that Kestou possessed and improperly stored nitrous oxide and butane cans, which caused the explosion. The illegal material rained down on civilians in a one-mile radius, with one canister killing Turner Lee Salter, who was a quarter-mile away from the building.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido stated that involuntary manslaughter was the highest charge based on the current evidence, but additional charges could arise as the investigation continues. Kestou’s bond was set at $500,000 cash-only, with conditions for his release including wearing a GPS tether, surrendering his passport and weapons, and not leaving the state. Lucido mentioned uncertainty regarding Kestou’s intention to leave the country with a wife and child still in the U.S. The cause of the fire and explosion is still under investigation, with authorities struggling to determine the exact source due to the intensity of the blast. They are seeking more information from witnesses and are focusing on the southwest corner of the building where the fire likely originated.
Chief Tim Duncan of the Clinton Police Department emphasized that Kestou had illegal substances in his possession that should not have been in the area, leading to the tragic explosion. The aftermath of the incident saw multiple businesses reporting damage from rockets coming down on their buildings. Supervisor Bob Cannon highlighted the significant impact of the explosion on the local community. Lucido expressed the importance of keeping Kestou in custody while awaiting trial to ensure he does not flee or pose a danger to the public. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities hoping to gather more evidence to determine the true cause of the fire.
Authorities are working diligently to uncover more information regarding the explosion that resulted in a tragic loss of life and significant damage to the surrounding area. The intensity of the blast has made it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause, but investigations are continuing to gather evidence and testimonies from witnesses. The community is reeling from the impact of the explosion, with businesses reporting damage from falling debris. Kestou’s attempt to escape the country following the incident raised suspicions and led to his arrest on involuntary manslaughter charges. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and authorities are committed to finding justice for the victims of the explosion.