SUSPECTED METH LAB EXPLODES

BENTON -- Two men were arrested and charged after a suspected methamphetamine lab exploded Tuesday.

Dean S. Robinson, 34 of Sikeston and James D. Cook, 29, of Brosley were both charged with manufacturing controlled substances, possession of chemicals and possession of methamphetamine.

Scott County Sheriff Bill Ferrell said deputy Bobby Sullivan was questioning people outside a home north of Sikeston about complaints of a strong odor of anhydrous ammonia coming from the house.

Sullivan said during questioning, one man, identified later as Robinson, ran inside shortly before an explosion.

With visible flames inside the residence, additional deputies, and officers from outside agencies arrived and were able to rescue the slightly singed suspect. The man's injuries were minor.

After the fire was extinguished, officers searched the home and found methamphetamine and items used in the manufacturing process of the drug. Robinson and Cook are held in the Scott County Jail with bond set at $200,000 each.