LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A tragic incident took the lives of an Arkansas family of four and injured two others in Michigan on Dec. 30. The family was visiting Hope’s father for the holidays in Michigan when a house explosion occurred, killing the Bragg family members Don and Hope, along with their children, Kenny and Beth.
Preliminary findings by Michigan police indicate that the explosion was caused by a fuel explosion, with no foul play expected. The devastating incident has left members of the Arkansas community mourning the loss of the Bragg family. Michael Blazier, the Dean of the College of Forestry, Agriculture, and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, expressed his grief, describing the Bragg family as “some of the best and brightest people” he had ever known.
Don Bragg, who worked at UAM, was remembered as an exceptional science writer, while Hope Bragg’s work with 4H was highlighted for helping children develop a passion for science and nature. The devastating loss has been felt not only by colleagues, but also by friends and supervisors. The couple’s love for their children, Kenny, Beth, and Stephen, was emphasized as their most significant pride and joy.
The explosion, reported to have occurred around 4 p.m., was so powerful that it could be heard miles away, and debris was scattered across the area. As the University of Arkansas at Monticello and the 4H plan to honor the Bragg family, including them in memorials and creating a scholarship, counseling services are being offered to those in need during this difficult time. The Bragg family, originally from Michigan, had plans to retire there. Their lives have left a lasting impact, and their memory will continue to be cherished through the tributes and support from their community.
In summary, a tragic explosion took the lives of an Arkansas family and injured others in Michigan on Dec. 30. The incident, believed to be caused by a fuel explosion, has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the Arkansas community and their colleagues at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. The impact of the Bragg family, their work, and their love for science and nature will be remembered through memorial services and a scholarship, as they continue to be honored and cherished.