IRWINDALE, Calif. — A man from Temple City faces five murder charges linked to a tragic explosion that claimed the lives of four individuals at an alleged illegal cannabis facility, as well as another victim in a separate incident connected to similar activities. Prosecutors announced the charges against 53-year-old Ted Chien on Friday, highlighting the severe legal ramifications of operating unregulated cannabis labs.
The incident, which took place on October 9, resulted in the deaths of Yi Luo, 47; Xin Chen, 59; Guangqi Fu, 35; and Quizhuo Liang, 35, all of whom were reportedly involved in operations at a warehouse on Arrow Highway. Additionally, Bordin “Tony” Sikarin, 57, lost his life in a fire at a cannabis lab in South El Monte on November 18, 2024. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office indicated that Chien faces multiple counts of murder due to the special circumstances of operating illegal cannabis facilities.
Chien’s alleged accomplice, Han Quan Jiao, 55, from Rosemead, faces similar charges related to Sikarin’s death, as well as several counts of arson and drug manufacturing. If convicted on all counts, Jiao could face a life sentence. Both men are scheduled to be arraigned on September 11 in a downtown Los Angeles court.
Authorities claim that Chien and Jiao continued their illicit operations despite the lethal explosion, which devastatingly impacted the lives and safety of their employees. The District Attorney’s Office has emphasized the risks involved in unlawful cannabis production, particularly when safety regulations are ignored.
In addition, four other individuals associated with Chien and Jiao have been charged with conspiracy related to drug manufacturing. Xiaolong Deng, Chengyan Xu, Christopher Reyes, and Frank Herrera face varying counts tied to their roles in these operations. Each of these defendants is also in the process of legal proceedings, with court dates set to determine the next steps.
Deng, Xu, and Reyes entered not guilty pleas, while Herrera’s arraignment is set for Monday. If found guilty, these defendants could face significant prison sentences, ranging up to seven years depending on the charges.
This case sheds light on the dangers of illegal cannabis operations that prioritize profit over employee and community safety. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman remarked on the issue, stressing the necessity to combat these hazardous practices. “High-risk, illegal activities have no place in our communities,” he stated, reinforcing his office’s commitment to holding accountable those engaged in illicit drug trade.
The investigation into these illegal operations continues to unfold. Recently, law enforcement officials executed search warrants at nine locations in Los Angeles County, including a large cannabis lab in La Verne as part of a coordinated effort named “Operation Sugar Diamond.” This operation showcases ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle illegal cannabis production and distribution in the region.