Oklahoma man charged with murder after 2 killed in explosion at marijuana extraction facility

Ryan Bassham, a 35-year-old Oklahoma man, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder following a deadly explosion at a marijuana extraction facility, prosecutors announced on Monday. The blast, which occurred around 1 a.m. on Thursday, killed two of Bassham's employees, Michael Newman and Stephen Scott, and caused significant damage to nearby businesses. Bassham surrendered to authorities this weekend and was granted a $2 million bond.

The victims, who worked for Bassham, were alleged to have been unlawfully manufacturing hazardous chemicals within the facility, leading to the explosion, according to prosecutors. A fire marshal's inspection of the facility in January had identified an outdated fire suppression system and equipment typically used in marijuana manufacturing. After the explosion, investigators discovered a substantial quantity of liquid propane and other hazardous materials that were not present in January, according to court records.

Newman reportedly informed a paramedic en route to the hospital that the area lacked proper ventilation and that the explosion occurred after he unplugged something. Despite being conscious when paramedics arrived, he later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. No other individuals were injured in the explosion; however, multiple adjacent businesses suffered damage.

Authorities believe Bassham acquired Solos Extracts earlier this year. According to a neighboring marijuana manufacturing business owner, Bassham had approached him in recent months regarding high levels of carbon dioxide detected in a building sensor. The owner described feeling lightheaded upon entering the facility.