BARLOW, Miss. – The investigation into a fatal propane explosion that claimed the lives of four individuals in Copiah County in January 2024 has been concluded by the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of Loyd Star Attendance Center student Toler Jordan, his cousin Houston “Bubba” Jordan, Bubba’s father Calvin “Benjy” Jordan, and their friend Jeremy Mitchell.
According to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the cause of the Copiah County explosion has been ruled as ‘undetermined,’ signifying that the exact reason for the fire or explosion could not be pinpointed due to the extensive damage caused. This conclusion indicates that the case will likely proceed into civil litigation.
Following the explosion, a lawsuit was filed against Hering Gas Company, the provider of the propane tank, alleging that the tank was improperly inspected, leading to the tragic event. The lawsuit claims that Herring Gas and its employees bear responsibility for the explosion and should be held accountable for its consequences.
The aftermath of the incident has left the community grieving the loss of four lives and seeking answers to what transpired on that fateful day in January. The families of the victims, as well as the wider community, are grappling with the devastating impact of the explosion and the legal proceedings that may follow as a result of the completed investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
As the investigation comes to a close and the details of the incident become clearer, the focus shifts towards seeking justice for the victims and ensuring accountability for those responsible for the tragic explosion in Copiah County. The road ahead may be challenging, but for the families and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking event, finding closure and answers is paramount in the pursuit of justice and healing.