Salem House Explodes, Homeowner Injured

Criminal charges are likely but are yet to be determined.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - Shortly before 10:00 PM Friday night multiple explosions occurred at 432 Clarmar Dr NE in Salem.

The explosions blew the windows and garage door out of the house rocking the entire neighborhood.

Many of the interior walls in the house were destroyed leaving primarily the framing of the house inside, exterior of the house and roof intact. Preliminary information has lead the investigators to believe that the resident, 32-year-old, Theodore “Ted” Thomas Henry, threw what he believed to be trash in his wood burning stove which resulted in an explosion.

The debris and fire from that explosion ignited explosive chemicals around the house causing many to explode as well.

The investigators found other chemicals in the house that were consistent with the manufacture of fireworks which was confirmed when investigators spoke with Henry.

During the subsequent and ongoing investigation, investigators discovered that Henry had a marijuana growing operation of about 18 plants inside the house as well.

Henry was able to escape the house before the major explosions occurred, suffering severe burns to his right arm.

He was transported to Salem Hospital where he is currently being treated for those injuries.

Agencies participating in the investigation include the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police Bomb Squad, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Marion County Fire District 1 and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.