JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – After recent gas explosions in Jackson, U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) announced he will host an emergency community safety meeting.

According to Thompson, the meeting with address concerns and updates from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). A date and time for the meeting has not been announced.

“The safety and well-being of Jackson residents is my top priority. These explosions have caused significant disruption and fear in the community, and I am committed to getting answers and ensuring all necessary steps are taken to prevent future incidents. I was briefed by the Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Jennifer Homendy, and she has confirmed her attendance at the forthcoming meeting,” he stated.

NTSB officials previously 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.

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.”