Firefighters killed in 1974 butane explosion to be honored

A ceremony honoring the firefighters who died in a butane explosion in 1974 will be held on July 3, 2024.

In a press release, Chief Derrick Stamps said:

The Vicksburg Fire Department extends a warm invitation to a poignant memorial event. On July 3, 2024, we will be hosting a memorable commemoration to honor the courageous members of the Vicksburg Fire Department who tragically lost their lives while serving the community. This event will mark the 50th anniversary of the incident and holds deep significance, serving as a powerful reminder of the selfless sacrifice made by our firefighters.

The 50th-year recognition service will be held at the Memorial Fire Station (Station 2), 4125 Indiana Avenue, Vicksburg, Mississippi. The commemorative event will start at ten o’clock in the morning on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. The construction of the station began in 1999. It was completed with its dedication in 2000 to honor its esteemed members: Captain John Krueger, Lieutenant David Lewis, Lieutenant Johnny McBroom, and Firefighter Jimmy Gibbs.

On July 3, 1974, firefighters responded to a call at Paul Pride Butane Company, initially thinking it was a grass fire near a butane tank. However, they soon discovered a butane leak, with approximately 15,000 gallons of butane blanketing the ground in a fog-like cloud. The butane cloud ignited from an unknown spark, leading to a truck bursting into flames. This tragic event resulted in the untimely deaths of Captain John Krueger, Lieutenant David Lewis, and Lieutenant Johnny McBroom and the injury of Firefighter Jimmy Gibbs. Sadly, Gibbs succumbed to his injuries 38 years later, on May 13, 2012.