Novato residents experienced a shocking turn of events on Yukon Way when a house fire revealed an illegal butane hash oil (BHO) operation leading to the arrest of a local man. On Sunday, the Novato Police Department, alongside the Novato Fire Protection District, arrived at the scene only to uncover a dangerous scenario sparked by activities far from innocent culinary mishaps.
The fire was swiftly contained, ensuring no further harm to the neighborhood. However, the aftermath was not so contained. Brendan Hummel, 42, found himself in the firm grasp of the law, with charges including manufacturing a controlled substance and igniting a reckless fire when the Novato Police, joined by the Marin County Sheriff’s Office Specialized Investigative Unit (SIU) with deep expertise in such incidents, sifted through the ashes.
Manufacturing BHO is not only illegal but deeply fraught with peril, often setting the stage for tragedy in communities just like Novato. Hummel, after being treated for his injuries, was booked into the Marin County Jail.
