Man charged in apartment explosion

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 1999 | 9:20 a.m.

Michael McGilbra, 42, was booked into the Clark County Detention Center on charges of first-degree arson, injury to other property and disregard for the safety of people and property, said Las Vegas Fire Department spokesman Tim Szymanski.

Investigators determined that McGilbra disconnected the flexible gas-supply line to his kitchen stove to kill himself on Jan. 4. The ignition source has not been disclosed.

Four of the 16 units at the La Fiesta apartment building were blown up. Officials estimate the damage at $500,000.

McGilbra and three children suffered minor injuries.

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