Suspected Drug Lab Explodes in Novato; 1 Hospitalized

NOVATO, CA -- One person was hospitalized with burns as a result of a fire that occurred at a residence in the Black Point neighborhood in Novato, and investigators say they suspect the blaze could have been caused by a drug lab explosion in a garage.

The home is located on Phillips Terrace, near Stonetree golf course. According to the Novato Fire District, the fire was reported by neighbors around 2:40 p.m. on Dec. 6 and fully under control about an hour later. In addition to Novato, firefighters from Marinwood and San Rafael also responded to the blaze.

Firefighters say the garage was completely destroyed, but that they were able to keep the blaze on the one property, which is located in a neighborhood with many hills and tight roads. Other homes in the neighborhood were completely safe, fire officials say.

Witnesses reported one person fleeing the scene after the explosion, which resulted in authorities asking area hospitals to inform them if a burn victim turned up seeking help. When one did at Petaluma Valley Hospital, the person -- whose name was not released -- was contacted by police for questioning.

The Marin County Major Crimes Task Force, which is investigating the incident, says the garage may have been used as a drug-producing lab.

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