MARIETTA - Washington County officials responding to a trailer fire in Little Hocking Friday night discovered an indoor marijuana growing operation, Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks reported.
At 10:45 p.m. Friday, Mincks said the WCSO received a call concerning a fully engulfed fire at a double-wide trailer owned and occupied by Brian E. Bond, 41, and Karen L. Bond, 33, at 2278 Newbury Road, Little Hocking. Volunteer firefighters from Little Hocking, Coolville and Belpre also responded.
In addition to Brian and Karen Bond, a teenage daughter resided in the trailer. Three dogs and a lizard are unaccounted for and may have perished in the fire, Mincks said.
Brian Bond advised they were watching TV in the living room and noticed an orange glow through the kitchen window. He checked the area, smelled smoke and discovered his back porch was on fire. He turned on a water hose and attempted to extinguish the fire, but was unable to do so.
All three exited the residence. Karen Bond sustained injuries on her right hand as a result of holding the hot door open. She was treated at the scene by members of the Little Hocking Squad.
During the examination of the fire scene, four gallon buckets containing a total of 13 marijuana plants were discovered inside the master bathroom, Mincks said. The bathroom was equipped with grow lights and aluminum foil to reflect the light. These plants and several items of drug paraphernalia located in the bathroom closet and under the bathroom sink were also seized.
Mincks said Brian Bond admitted to growing and using marijuana. This investigation is continuing. The origin of the fire is undetermined and the State Fire Marshall has been contacted for assistance, he said.
