Chemist died allegedly concocting his own drugs

Kits resident, 44, was 'making psychedelics for his own use'. A 44-year-old man who died in his clandestine drug lab in Kitsilano was a "professional chemist making psychedelics for his own use," a friend said yesterday.

Paul Haden, 44, was found dead Saturday night on the floor of his lab, in a suite in an apartment block in the 2500-block Balsam Street.

"The details, if released in truth, will show that he was a responsible, professional chemist making psychedelics for his own use," the friend wrote anonymously in an e-mail to The Province.

"Something clearly went wrong but he was not one to knowingly place his neighbours in harm's way. He was no meth dealer. He was a good man."

Police said they found about half a kilogram of what they believe is ecstasy in the lab, which they said was for more than personal use.

They also found a .22-calibre rifle and a pistol registered to the tenant, who wasn't known to police.

Haden's elder brother, Bruce Haden, said the family is grieving their loss and was unaware of the illegal activities.

"He was a fine man," Haden said yesterday, declining to comment further.

Paul Haden is thought to have been killed by toxic fumes from the drugs, although the cause of death will not be confirmed until the autopsy is complete.

Approximately 40 tenants of the Balsam Street complex were allowed back into their apartments last night.

Patti Bacchus of Balfour Properties had said earlier yesterday the company had not received the all-clear from Vancouver Coastal Health to let tenants back in.

jcouture@png.canwest.com

Joe Couture, The Province

Published: Tuesday, June 10, 2008

© The Vancouver Province 2008