5 arrested after Grainger County meth lab explodes

5 arrested after Grainger County meth lab explodes

RUTLEDGE (WATE) - Five people have been arrested after deputies raided an active meth lab within a Rutledge home.

Grainger County authorities say it happened just before 1 a.m. Thursday on the 2000 block of Highway 92.

The release from the sheriff says one of the suspects, Krystal Holbert, 33 of Rutledge, ran through the home when officers arrived and attempted to flush the homemade meth lab down the toilet. 

The meth lab exploded and burned Holbert's face.  She was treated and then transported to the Grainger County Detention Center.

Sheriff Scott Layel said he is surprised at Holbert's actions.

"It astounds me at what lengths that some of these individuals will go to continue or conceal their habits," Layel said.  "Moisture is one of the factors that causes the chemical explosion and the fact that she was attempting to flush it in a toilet is amazing to me.  She could have easily killed herself, the other defendants, and the officers at the scene."

Holbert was arrested along with four others, including Johnny Ray Lee, 27 of Rutledge, James Elwood Keck, 30 of Luttrell, Brandy Lee Gibson, 24 of Luttrell, and Cecille Marie Evans, 42 of Rutledge.

All were charged with manufacture of methamphetamine. Holbert was also charged with aggravated burglary, theft over $1,000, criminal simulation and tampering with evidence.