Drug bust in Hollister after fire investigation

An illegal marijuana lab was busted at 808 Powell Street in Hollister Tuesday after officers investigated a suspicious fire.

Police said the fire department had responded to a report of an explosion and fire at the location and discovered the fire had been in the garage, which was next to the apartment complex. They called police when they discovered a burn victim, Lane Gallo Jr., 21, and items indicative of a lab explosion.

The building’s fire sprinklers had extinguished the flames. Gallo was treated on scene for second and third degree burns before he was taken to a Bay Area trauma center.

Police said as they were inspecting the garage, officers found butane, marijuana and other items used to manufacture, “butane honey oil,”a form of concentrated cannabis.

Drug agents seized the evidence and disposed of the dangerous and potentially deadly products associated with the lab operation.

Charges of manufacturing a controlled substance, unlawful use of fire, child endangerment and marijuana possession for sales will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Hollister police said manufacturing marijuana oil is illegal, and potentially, extremely dangerous. Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Officer Esqueda at the Hollister Police Department at 636-4330. Anonymous tips can be left with the WeTip Hotline at 800-78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.