BARLOW, Mississippi – Following a fatal propane explosion in Copiah County, Attorney Ben Wilson from Morgan and Morgan expressed his lack of surprise at the undetermined cause ruling by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Wilson anticipated this outcome, as he stated that fire investigations often end as undetermined unless there is clear evidence. The SFMO released reports on multiple fire investigations, all of which were classified as undetermined.
Wilson emphasized the importance of an independent investigation for civil cases, as the state’s primary objective is to determine criminal intent rather than negligence. The explosion in January 2024 claimed the lives of four individuals, leading the SFMO to conclude that the exact cause could not be determined due to the extent of damage.
Among the victims were Loyd Star Attendance Center student Toler Jordan, his cousin Houston “Bubba” Jordan, Bubba’s father Calvin “Benjy” Jordan, and their friend Jeremy Mitchell. Following the tragedy, a lawsuit was filed against Hering Gas Company, alleging improper inspection of the propane tank that led to the explosion.
Wilson mentioned that the lawsuit has been filed in the Circuit Court, with steps taken to secure evidence for expert examination in Atlanta. Discussions are ongoing about possible criminal prosecution by the District Attorney’s office, although no decision has been made yet. A trial date for the civil case against Herring Gas Company has been set for March 11, 2025.