FBI Meth Disposal Goes Wrong, Toxic Smoke Fills Animal Shelter

Montana Animal Shelter Evacuated After Meth Disposal Mishap

In a bizarre turn of events, an FBI operation to destroy approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine went dangerously wrong in Billings, Montana. The law enforcement agency attempted to incinerate the seized drugs using the cremation oven at a local animal shelter, but a critical error caused toxic methamphetamine smoke to flood the facility.

Emergency Response and Hospitalizations

Fourteen people were transported to local hospitals for medical evaluation after being exposed to the hazardous fumes. Several individuals reported experiencing nausea and other symptoms consistent with methamphetamine exposure. The animal shelter's entire population of dogs and cats had to be immediately evacuated to other facilities or temporary foster homes.

Technical Failure Causes Contamination

According to official statements, the incident occurred due to a pressure differential between the shelter's interior and the outside environment. The building's lower internal air pressure caused the toxic smoke to be drawn inside rather than being properly vented. 'Normally we have a ventilation system that prevents this exact scenario, but unfortunately that equipment was not available during this operation,' explained a spokesperson for local authorities.

Regular Drug Disposal Practice

The animal shelter's cremation oven, typically used for deceased animals, has been regularly utilized by both local police and federal agencies for drug destruction operations. These events occur several times per year as part of ongoing efforts to combat Montana's significant methamphetamine problem. The state has been particularly affected by the meth epidemic, with law enforcement agencies frequently seizing large quantities of the drug.

The shelter will remain closed indefinitely while environmental testing determines whether any residual hazardous substances remain in the building. This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in safely disposing of dangerous narcotics, particularly in rural areas where specialized disposal facilities may be limited.

Source: Drug Enforcement Administration