Videos show the controlled detonation of decades-old dynamite at Holladay's home

HOLLADAY, Utah (KUTV) – Photos and videos were released after the Unified Fire Authority detonated “ancient dynamite” found in a home in Holladay.

They said detonation was the chosen disposal method due to the nature of the explosives, improper storage and their age; The explosives are estimated to be between 60 and 80 years old.

Neighbors were evacuated ahead of the controlled detonation, which occurred around 4 a.m. on April 24.

According to UFA, the house belonged to a woman whose husband had recently died. Around 1983, her husband received an inheritance from his father that included between 30 and 35 pounds of explosives.

UFA captain Tony Barker told 2News that the dynamite has been in the family for “generations and generations.”

“To say the homeowner is a collector of fine explosives would be an understatement,” Barker said.

Officials added that the collection appears to be a hobby of the homeowner – “a very unusual hobby and a very unsafe hobby unless you really know what you're doing.”

They said his wife was unaware of the presence of the dynamite in their home and asked for help after discovering it.

Surrounding homes were damaged by the explosion and resulting fire, raising questions about who was responsible for covering these costs.

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