Michigan business owner whose building blew up and killed teen caught trying to flee to Hong Kong

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN: The owner of the Michigan company that blew up in March, killing a 19-year-old Turner Lee Salter and injuring a firefighter, was charged with involuntary manslaughter after police stopped him while trying to flee to Hong Kong on a one-way ticket.

According to the Clinton Township Police Department, Noor Noel Kestou, aged 31, tried to flee the US following the fatal explosion at his vape and smoke business, Goo Smoke Shop/Select Distributors, on March 4. Investigations revealed that Kestou illegally possessed and improperly stored nitrous oxide and butane cans, factors believed to have contributed to the devastating explosion. "They shouldn't have had this in there, period," stated Clinton Police Chief Tim Duncan. "It wasn't allowed in this district," reported Fox.

Teenager's tragic death highlights the magnitude of explosion

In the aftermath of the explosion, debris and hazardous materials rained down on civilians in a one-mile radius, causing extensive damage to nearby businesses. One tragic casualty of the incident was 19-year-old Salter, who succumbed to injuries despite being a quarter-mile away from the building.

The fire and subsequent explosion are still under investigation, and due to the magnitude of the explosion, authorities are still struggling to determine the exact cause. Chief Duncan underscored the ongoing efforts to ascertain the cause, stating, "They would still like to have more investigation, more information come from some of the witnesses. Some of that is still coming out."

"Our hope is that in the future, when they actually get on the site and start pulling everything away, we’re trying to maintain that southwest corner of the building, which is where we believe the fire started, based upon the information we’ve seen."

Investigation's progress raises prospect of additional charges

Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido explained that involuntary manslaughter was the highest charge based on current evidence, though further charges may arise as the investigation progresses.

Kestou's bond has been set at $500,000—cash only—with stringent conditions upon his release, including wearing a GPS tether, surrendering his passport and any weapons, and remaining within the state. Lucido expressed uncertainty regarding Kestou's intentions in attempting to leave the US but confirmed his custody and potential bond payment.