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Authorities release new details of explosion in Oak Harbor residence

11 months ago in Crime, Local

Photo: Saga Communications

ISLAND COUINTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Authorities have released new details regarding a massive fire earlier this week in Oak Harbor.

The Island County Sheriff’s Office says that the body of 42-year-old Mark Fakkema was found in the remains of a home on Strawberry Point Road on Wednesday.

Investigators determined that Fakkema had been making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) out of commercial-grade fireworks inside the home. About 1.5 to 2 lbs. of explosives detonated on Tuesday, killing Fakkema and injuring two other adults.

A search of his home on Torpedo Road in Oak Harbor led to the discovery of at least 25 IEDs and a cargo container filled with fireworks.

Deputies noted that Fakkema didn’t hold any type of license that would’ve allowed him to legally own or alter all of those explosive devices.

Bellingham Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit was among multiple agencies that assisted with this investigation.

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