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Explosion Rocks Los Feliz After Marijuana 'Hash Oil' Lab Blows Up

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The hills of Los Feliz became a scary scene after hundreds of butane canisters blew up in what turned out to be a hash oil lab and pot growing operation.Los Angeles Fire Department units responded to the fire on the 3900 block of West Sunset Drive at 6 p.m., Friday evening. Multiple calls came in saying there were sounds of explosions coming from the home. Firefighters were able to put out the fire within 20 minutes, but not before a garage, bedroom, and two vehicles were destroyed. The situation terrified neighbors—Laura Balson told KTLA that the fire looked like a "wall of flames."

"It looked like it was gonna overtake the whole block. It was crazy. it was really scary," she added.

In the aftermath firefighters discovered up to a hundred marijuana plants in an empty pool on the property, according to Captain Daniel Curry. Neighbors say there were always rumors about the home—especially because of the smells. Unsurprisingly, the home's residents ran away as the fire went off.

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The manufacture of hash oil requires highly flammable solvents, and as result a meth lab-like explosions can occur. According to the Associated Press , such accidents have been on the rise in Western states where medical marijuana has been legalized. In California, though, hash oil is illegal.

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