Three charged in deadly industrial explosion almost two years ago

Three people are facing charges in a deadly industrial explosion in St. Catharines’ north end almost two years ago.

Emergency crews were called to Ssonix Products at 20 Keefer Road at 6:35 a.m. on January 17, 2023.

The company treats both hazardous and non-hazardous chemical waste.

A St. Catharines man in his 30s was rushed to an out-of-region hospital in critical condition. He died of his injuries.  

Niagara Regional Police say a joint investigation between police, fire and government officials has now led to the arrests of three people. 

Steve Baker, 60, and Sharon Baker, 61, both of Petersburg, Ontario, as well as Tyler Baker, 38, of Scotland, Ontario are facing the following charges:

• Criminal negligence causing Death
• Arson by Negligence

All three are expected to appear in a St. Catharines court on January 3.