JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) expressed his concerns about two home explosions in Jackson.

Officials with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said Atmos Energy discovered gas leaks in South Jackson weeks before two homes exploded.

The first explosion happened on January 24, 2024 at a home on Bristol Boulevard. One person died during the incident. The Hinds County coroner said the person is suspected to be Clara Barber, 82.

The second explosion occurred on Shalimar Drive on January 27, 2024, about 0.7 miles southeast of the first explosion. The fire spread to a neighboring home. No fatalities or injuries were reported during the second explosion.

Before the explosions, the NTSB team said Atmos identified and classified leaks on their distribution system near locations one and two. According to the NTSB, neither leak was repaired before the explosions.

Thompson said he wants answers. He requested an in-person briefing to examine the circumstances of the explosions.

“Based on the initial report from the National Transportation Safety Board, that there were indications that Atmos knew that gas was escaping in the area, but determined that those breaches were not harmful. The people I know, every time they smell gas, they know there’s a potential danger. So, we need to get to understanding why not just what occurred. I see all the Atmos assets in town now. Well, why couldn’t those assets have been deployed when the put the breaks were first discovered?” questioned Thompson.

Officials with Atmos Energy released a statement to WJTV 12 News. They said, “The NTSB report confirms that the investigation is ongoing and future activity will focus on causal factors. The safety of our customers, employees, and communities is Atmos Energy’s highest priority. We appreciate the NTSB’s investigative efforts and will continue to work with their team, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the Mississippi Public Service Commission as the investigation continues.”