HOLLADAY, Utah – A controlled detonation of dynamite in a home in Holladay resulted in damage to neighboring properties, prompting the homeowner to apologize for the inconvenience caused to residents in the area. Teri Wojcik, the 79-year-old homeowner, expressed regret for the unexpected situation, which stemmed from the removal of items stored by her late husband, a retired chemist.
Returning to her residence for the first time since her husband’s passing in January, Wojcik encountered Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigators still working to clear out chemicals stored on the property. Her husband had collected various chemicals over the years for experimentation, with the collection becoming hazardous as his health declined due to Alzheimer’s disease.
The presence of a small mercury spill from one of her husband’s projects prompted Wojcik to contact the health department, leading to the discovery of potentially dangerous chemicals and dynamite on the property. The EPA, bomb squad, and local authorities were then called in to safely handle the situation, evacuating neighbors and removing unstable dynamite and chemicals from the premises.
Unified Fire Authority discovered approximately 50 sticks of dynamite on the property, some of which were decades old and deemed unstable. While most of the dynamite was successfully removed, a few sticks remained due to their instability. The EPA also cleared out hundreds of chemical containers, leaving only those that were considered safe for storage.
The detonation of the remaining dynamite early Wednesday morning resulted in the destruction of Wojcik’s home, along with damage to surrounding houses. EPA investigators continued their cleanup efforts, focusing on removing hazardous materials from the property. Despite the loss of her home and belongings, Wojcik expressed gratitude that no one was injured during the incident.
The EPA expects to complete the cleanup by Friday, ensuring the safety of the area before turning the property back over to Wojcik for further coordination with her insurance company. As the community works to recover from the aftermath of the detonation, Wojcik’s daughter initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with expenses, reflecting the support and solidarity shown by neighbors and well-wishers throughout the ordeal.