Dartmouth man charged in fireworks explosion at home that killed dog, seriously injured resident

DARTMOUTH — Chief Brian Levesque reports that the Dartmouth Police Department has charged a resident following an investigation into an explosion and house fire.

On Tuesday, Sept. 2, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Dartmouth Police and Dartmouth Fire District 1 received multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion at a home at 20 Sagamore Drive.

When they arrived, crews observed heavy fire conditions and explosions originating from the garage of the house.

All residents evacuated from the home before first responders arrived. One resident who suffered burns was transported to a Rhode Island hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

Three dogs were inside the home at the time of the explosion, and one was later determined to be deceased at the scene.

State Police Bomb Squad technicians responded to assess the scene for any hazards that could have contributed to the explosion.

The origin and cause of the explosion were investigated by the Dartmouth Police Department, Dartmouth Fire District 1, and Massachusetts State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the explosions were caused by the ignition of fireworks and related substances within the garage. Although the extent of the damage made it impossible to determine the exact cause, investigators believe it was an accidental event.

As a result of the investigation, Dartmouth Police sought a criminal complaint charging 54-year-old Kevin Ruiz of Dartmouth in connection with the discovery of fireworks that contributed to the explosion and fire. The criminal complaint was issued in New Bedford District Court on Sept. 18.

Ruiz was charged with Possession of Component Parts Capable of Creating a Destructive/Incendiary Device, Possession of Explosives, Wanton Destruction of Property Over $1,200 (Three Counts), and Disturbing the Peace.

He is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, October 6th, in New Bedford District Court.