Lemoore police make arrests in suspected narcotics' lab explosion and resulting fire at Lemoore hotel

At least three persons suspected of criminal activity at the motel were arrested. Police have not released the names of at least one Hispanic male, 21, from Avenal and a 15 and 18-year old man, both from Hanford.

The incident occurred approximately 4:40 a.m. as police responded to a report of a room on fire. While responding to the scene Lemoore police were advised that there might be a “narcotics lab.”  A Lemoore Sergeant quickly arrived on the scene and determined the explosion to have been caused by criminal activity.

Two men were transported to the hospital for burn injuries.  A third subject fled the scene and was later located. That subject was treated at Adventist Medical Center in Hanford and released to Lemoore police custody.  During the investigation it was determined that a fourth involved subject fled the scene.

Officers evacuated the remaining occupied rooms. Narcotics Task Force investigators responded after evidence of butane honey oil in room.

It is suspected that the vapors from the flammable solvent were ignited by an undetermined ignition source, which resulted in the explosion.  There was major damage to the room.

Two of the subjects suffered serious burn-related injuries and were transported to Fresno Regional Medical Center. 

Due to the nature of the incident, specialized investigative personnel from Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTAs) responded to assist.

This incident remains under investigation.  Anyone with more information is encouraged to contact Lemoore Police Department at (559) 924-5333.