Mass. man whose dog died in fireworks explosion to face charges

A Dartmouth man faces charges after a house explosion on Sept. 2 killed a dog and injured a resident. Kevin Ruiz, 54, allegedly stored fireworks in his garage, which investigators believe contributed to the blast that occurred around 1 a. m. at 20 Sagamore Drive.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire conditions and explosions, and one resident was hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Three dogs were inside during the incident, with one declared dead at the scene. Following the investigation, police filed a criminal complaint against Ruiz, who now faces charges including possession of component parts for a destructive device and disturbing the peace. The State Police Bomb Squad assisted in the investigation, which concluded that the explosion was likely accidental. Ruiz is scheduled for arraignment on Oct.

6 in New Bedford District Court.