Elmira, New York – A man from Chemung County is now facing felony drug charges after being seriously injured in a house explosion linked to a meth lab operation in March. Bryon J. Schwartz, 42, was arrested by the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday on charges of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and third-degree unlawful manufacture of methamphetamine.
The explosion occurred on March 9 at 209 Veteran Hill Road in the Town of Veteran, just north of the Village of Horseheads. The blast, which originated from a detached garage at the residence, left Schwartz with severe burns to a significant portion of his upper body. Further investigation by the sheriff’s office revealed that the explosion was a result of the manufacturing of methamphetamine.
Following the incident, a search warrant executed by representatives from the sheriff’s office criminal investigation division and New York State Police Crime Scene Emergency Response Team led to the discovery of an active meth lab, lab equipment, and 6.3 ounces of meth at the scene.
Schwartz was subsequently transported to Lehigh Valley Medical Center for treatment of burns covering nearly 40% of his body. After his recovery, he was taken into custody and held at the Chemung County Jail pending further court proceedings.
The charge of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance carries a Class A-II felony designation, punishable by a minimum of three to eight years in prison upon conviction. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with illicit drug manufacturing operations and the potential consequences that can follow.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the meth lab explosion as the case moves through the legal system. The community remains vigilant against such criminal activities to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in Chemung County and beyond.