CARROLL COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – One man was injured during a home explosion in Carroll County.

The incident occurred at a home on McCarley Road around 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 10.

Carroll County deputies said James Duke, the homeowner, was asleep when the explosion happened. He was able to escape the fire and drive his lawnmower to his brother’s home to seek help.

Duke was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson where he is being treated for third degree burns.

The North Carrollton Fire Department responded to the fire, and firefighters were able to put out the fire. The State Fire Marshal’s Office and a gas company are investigating the cause of the fire. Investigators believe the explosion happened due to a space heater.

“I thank the Lord for protecting Mr. Duke and all the first responders involved. With the weather getting cooler these sorts of accidents are more common. Let’s all take this as a reminder to have our heating units checked before the first cold spell gets here. We will be keeping Mr. Duke in our prayers for a quick and complete recovery,” said Carroll County Sheriff Clint Walker.