2 Injured In Explosion, Fire At RivCo Home; Possible Drug Lab Inside

MORENO VALLEY, CA — Two people were injured Friday in an explosion that ignited a fire in a Moreno Valley home, where there were indications of an illegal drug lab in operation.

The blaze was reported about 10:25 a.m. in the 13600 block of Pattilynn Drive, just north of Bay Avenue, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said that multiple engine crews were sent to the location and found smoke billowing out of the two-story house.

Neighbors had called 911 after hearing an explosion inside the residence.

Firefighters encountered two occupants, whose identities were not disclosed, suffering burns and other injuries that were not believed to be life- threatening, according to reports from the scene.

The victims were taken to nearby Riverside University Medical Center for treatment.

Sheriff's deputies closed the street to traffic as fire crews worked on containing the blaze, which was under control by 11 a.m. No surrounding properties sustained damage.

A preliminary investigation uncovered signs of drug-making activity, and a hazardous materials team was summoned to initiate a cleanup at the site.

Cal Fire law enforcement personnel and sheriff's detectives were notified and were expected to handle the ensuing investigation.

—City News Service