Firefighters Responding to Shed Blaze Discover West Virginia Meth Lab

A West Virginia man has been charged after authorities discovered an alleged methamphetamine lab following a shed fire near Belington on Tuesday.

Deputies responded to reports of a fire on January 23, according to the Barbour County Sheriff's Department. Upon arrival, officials were informed that "glass breakers and chemicals were involved in the fire," prompting detainment of the homeowner, identified as 29-year-old Brenden Setchell of Belington, WBOY reported.

After obtaining a search warrant, deputies discovered multiple items consistent with meth production on the property, including chemicals and equipment used to manufacture the drug. Additionally, law enforcement officers seized three firearms and two 3D-printed suppressors.

Inside the residence, deputies located a container with methamphetamine residue and papers detailing a "DEA list of chemicals" associated with meth production, according to the criminal complaint.

Setchell has been charged with operating a clandestine drug laboratory and is currently being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail.

Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the operation and any potential risks to the surrounding community.