Explosion in Mountain Ranch

   On January 26, 2019 at around 8:05 AM Calaveras Sheriff dispatch received multiple reports of an explosion in the area of the 6000 block of Quartz Mine Road in
Mountain Ranch.

   Upon arrival to the area deputies were dire cted to a property by neighbors who heard the loud noise and people yelling.  An outbuilding was found to have been demolished from an explosion.

    While deputies were conducting their investigation and attempting to locate subjects on the property, Mark Twain Medical Center reported that a 41 year old female had arrived at the hospital emergency room with burns.

   A Sheriff Explosive Device Team (aka Bomb Team) deputy along with members of the marijuana enforcement team responded to this incident.

   Evidence of mixed light and indoor marijuana cultivation were discovered on this property. An investigation is ongoing in regards to the marijuana.  1000 marijuana plants and 136 pounds of processed marijuana were seized.

   From statements obtained, deputies determined that the explosion appears to have been caused by a propane stove being left on overnight in the outbuilding.

   When the female entered the outbuilding and attempted to turn the stove off,t eh explosion occurred causing injury to the female who was later transported out of county to a trauma center. Her condition is unknown.

  This is an ongoing investigation. No further information is available at this time.