NEW: Confusion Reigns Over Kinsley Ave Fire Investigation
Sunday, March 22, 2015
The investigation of the five alarm fire that took place on March 10 at Kinsley Avenue in Providence -- which had housed the New England Cannabis Producers Association -- has been referred to Jim Martin at the U.S. Attorney's office, according to Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare's Office.
"Calls are being referred to Jim Martin at the US Attorney’s Office," said Lindsay Lague, Public Information Officer for the Office of the Public Safety Commissioner.
"The Providence Fire Marshall, the ATF, and the State Fire Marshall's office have been regularly updating us on the investigation," said Martin. "That's all I have to say at this time."
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTOn Friday, Boston ATF Public Information Officer Christopher Arone had said that all calls should be directed to Commissioner Pare.
Fire Investigation Continues
The five-alarm fire that took place at 498 Kinsley Avenue was the location of Cannabis Producers Association.
Chris White, the point of contact for the Cannabis Producers Association of New England, confirmed that the office had been in the building. "It's no longer there, obviously," White told GoLocalProv on March 10.
As first reported by GoLocalProv, butane — the highly flammable solvent used to make butane hash oil — was present in the building.
"That's what I'm hearing, but I can't confirm," said Colonel Steve O'Donnell, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police in a phone interview with GoLocalProv on March 10.
The Rhode Island Fire Marshall has said that he has "serious concerns" about marijuana growing facilities in Rhode Island.
State Fire Marshall John Chartier spoke with GoLocal on Wednesday, March 11.
"Regardless of that fire, we've had concerns about grow facilities," said Chartier. "We've had at least two fires related to marijuana grow facilities in the state. A grow facility might be installed not quite up to code, which could lead to electric overloads, or be using butane as part of the process. Again, I'm not speaking directly to the [Kinsley Avenue] fire as it's still under investigation."
Related Slideshow: Butane Hash Fires in the U.S.
Here is a look at the butane hash fires that have occured throughout the United States.
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