Palisade, Colorado – Authorities in Palisade, Colorado, revealed on Wednesday that the devastating explosion that resulted in the destruction of a six-unit apartment building and the tragic death of an 18-year-old woman was deliberately caused by a resident using an accelerant in his apartment. The incident occurred last week on Friday morning at 920 Iowa Ave in the small town on the Western Slope.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office disclosed that Andrew Alderman, a 29-year-old resident of the building, intentionally ignited the fire that led to the explosion. Investigators discovered evidence of an accelerant in Alderman’s apartment, suggesting that the high level of vapors from the accelerant triggered the explosion that claimed the life of Kloey Weythman, the young victim from Palisade.
Further investigation is ongoing to determine the specific type of chemical accelerant used in the fatal incident. Disturbing videos found on Alderman’s social media account hinted at his responsibility for the fire, which led authorities to track him down. Tragically, Alderman was found deceased in an area outside of Leadville where he had taken his own life.
In response to the tragic event, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to the loved ones of Kloey Weythman and pledged to pursue the investigation to unravel the motive behind the senseless act. Temporary housing was provided to all displaced residents, with community efforts led by the Town of Palisade and the American Red Cross to collect support for the fire victims.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on piecing together the events leading up to the intentional setting of the fire and subsequent explosion. The devastating impact of the incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of a young life in such tragic circumstances.
Efforts are underway to provide support and assistance to those affected by the aftermath of the explosion as the community comes together to heal and rebuild in the wake of the heartbreaking event.