Barlow, Mississippi – An investigation into a fatal propane explosion in Copiah County in January 2024 has been completed by the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals, including Loyd Star Attendance Center student Toler Jordan, his cousin Houston “Bubba” Jordan, Bubba’s father Calvin “Benjy” Jordan, and their friend Jeremy Mitchell.
The explosion, which occurred at a Copiah County home, has been classified as “undetermined” by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. This classification signifies that the exact cause of the fire or explosion could not be pinpointed due to the extensive damage caused by the incident. As a result, the case is likely to transition into a civil matter.
Following the tragic event, a lawsuit was filed against Hering Gas Company, alleging that the propane tank involved in the explosion was “improperly inspected.” The tank was reportedly filled on a Saturday evening and exploded the following day, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. The lawsuit holds Hering Gas and its employees accountable for the explosion and its aftermath.
The legal action highlights the importance of ensuring proper safety measures are in place when handling propane and other hazardous materials. The incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from negligence or oversight in the inspection and maintenance of such equipment. As the community mourns the loss of the four individuals, the legal proceedings will seek to provide justice and accountability for the tragedy.
The completion of the investigation marks a crucial step in understanding the events leading up to the explosion and determining potential liabilities. Moving forward, the enforcement of stricter safety protocols and regulations may be necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future. The families and loved ones of the victims seek closure and answers as they navigate through the legal process and cope with the profound impact of the tragedy.
As details continue to unfold and legal proceedings progress, the community remains united in support of the affected families and in advocating for safer practices in handling hazardous materials. The outcome of the investigation and subsequent legal actions will play a pivotal role in shaping regulations and protocols to prevent such devastating incidents from occurring again in the future.