Jackson, Ohio – The Herbal Wellness Center, a Vext Sciences‑operated marijuana dispensary, announced Friday that it has voluntarily closed its doors at the request of the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC). The closure follows reports from two customers who suffered what the dispensary described as “serious adverse health effects” after using a Vapen‑branded vape cartridge purchased at the shop.
Company and regulator response
Company spokesperson Scott Everett, general counsel for Vext Sciences, said the affected products are now on a “precautionary hold” while a laboratory review is conducted. “All products undergo testing at independent, state‑licensed labs before they’re sold,” Everett noted, adding that the firm is not commenting on specific health matters out of respect for the individuals involved.
DCC spokesman Tom Brockman reported that follow‑up testing of a sample from the same product lot showed no harmful contaminants. The division has placed some products on hold pending additional testing, which is being performed at an independent lab funded by Vext. “Because this is an ongoing investigation and the product in question has not shown to be contaminated via initial or follow‑up testing, the Division is not disclosing any health‑related information or specific product details,” Brockman said.
Unclear link to a reported death
County coroner investigator Buster Hall indicated that a person died in the Holzer Medical Center emergency department within five or six days of the dispensary’s shutdown. Hall emphasized that an autopsy is pending and no cause of death has been confirmed, leaving any connection to the vape products speculative.
County Health Commissioner Kevin Aston clarified that the local health department does not inspect or keep records on the facility and has not been involved in the investigation.
Impact on Vext’s other locations
Vext Sciences operates four additional dispensaries in Ohio, all of which remain open while the investigation continues. The company affirmed that all its products continue to be tested in compliance with state regulations.
What residents should know
Consumers with concerns about vape products should stay informed of any updates from the DCC and Vext Sciences. The precautionary hold means that the specific cartridges in question are not available for sale until the review is complete. Residents are encouraged to follow official statements from state regulators for the latest information.
Original reporting: Signal Cleveland — read the source article.
