Carbon Monoxide Incident in Freedom Claims Two Lives, Suspected Link to Illegal Operation Uncovered

FREEDOM, Maine — A tragic incident in the small town of Freedom resulted in the deaths of two individuals following a carbon monoxide leak early Thursday morning. Additionally, two others were hospitalized as first responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a dangerous gas presence.

The initial alarm, reported to authorities at 6 a.m., was thought to concern a propane leak at a residence located on Belfast Road, according to Freedom Fire Chief, Jim Waterman. Upon their arrival, however, emergency teams identified the true hazard as carbon monoxide emanating from a cut in the heating system’s exhaust pipeline.

Compounding the gravity of the situation, the site of the leak was previously raided in May after law enforcement uncovered an illicit marijuana cultivation operation. During that raid, officials seized over 1,900 cannabis plants.

Chief Waterman indicated suspicion that the residential property was still being utilized for marijuana cultivation at the time of the incident. He noted additional structures on the premises, including a two-car garage and other facilities believed to be continuing the illegal activity.

Complicating rescue efforts was a significant language barrier between the first responders and the survivors, which hampered the identification process of the deceased. The responders were not immediately able to determine or confirm the identities of those who had perished.

Ownership records identify Austin Zhen as the owner of the property. The investigation into the circumstances of the carbon monoxide leak and related activities on the property is ongoing, led by the Waldo County Sheriff’s Office.

The community of Freedom, a small locality seldom thrust into the limelight, finds itself grappling with the implications of such incidents and their impact on regional safety and legality.

As the inquiry proceeds, authorities are vigilant in ensuring that no further harm comes from operations suspected on Zhen’s property. Meanwhile, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can prove fatal without proper detection and intervention measures in place.

Local officials are urging residents to install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes and to seek immediate assistance if they suspect any form of gas leak. This tragic event highlights the broader risks of unregulated and clandestine operations that compromise public safety.