Santa Cruz officials searching for suspect in illegal Butane Hash Oil lab incident

Santa Cruz County Sheriffs officials need the public’s help finding a suspect they believe was running an illegal Butane Hash Oil (BHO) lab.

Butane is an odorless, flammable gas which can sink to the floor of homes or closed spaces, make a connection to a flame like a water-heater and the gas can cause an explosion. Officials say they have seen BHO lab explosions in the past and it’s a miracle no one lost their life in this incident.

This past October, a small fire on the deck of a home in the 2900 block of Redwood Dr. in Aptos had the potential to be a major emergency had not it been for the quick action of neighbors. Neighbors called 911 after noticing a fire on the home’s deck. When deputies and fire arrived, the neighbors had nearly put the fire out. While at the address they found a large, illegal Butane Hash Oil (BHO) lab. Nearly every room in the house was used for BHO processing.

Detectives investigated this case and currently have an arrest warrant for 24-year-old, Soquel resident, Jimmie Lee Ramirez Jr. If you happen to see Mr. Ramirez or know where we may find him, please call Dispatch at 831-471-1121 and reference case number 17-09240.

Officials say items like those seen in the photos can be used to make BHO and if not done professionally, could have deadly consequences.