An explosion at a commercial building in Bucklin, Kansas, on Saturday, October 14, 2023, resulted in the death of three individuals, with another person sustaining injuries.
The event happened around 5:30 p.m. on the 100 block of West Center Street, situated over 100 miles west of Wichita, during the structure’s renovation process.
Jerry Isakson, 26, Robyn Hamilton, 29, and their 19-month-old daughter, Stormi Isakson, were the identified casualties. Meanwhile, Christian Stimpert, 26, was discovered injured on-site and was quickly taken to St. Catherine Hospital in Dodge City for treatment. Stimpert was working on renovations for the building and Isakson was helping him, while bringing along Hamilton and their child.
Emergency response from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office, Ford County Fire, and the Bucklin Fire Department was swift following the explosion.
The responsibility of determining the explosion’s cause is currently with the Kansas State Fire Marshal Office and Ford County Fire. Initial observations hint at the explosion being unintentional, linked to the ongoing renovations of the building.
Speaking on the event, Ford County Sheriff Bill Carr commented on the strain events like these put on first responders, both at the moment and afterward. Sheriff Carr acknowledged the notable determination and spirit of the community. He assured that both the Bucklin community and Ford County would be providing support to everyone impacted during this recovery period.
Sheriff Carr stated, “We are all ‘walking wounded.’ There’s a visible determination in our community. Bucklin’s community and Ford County are committed to offering the support required for everyone affected as they heal from this collective and personal loss.” He also extended his sympathies to the families and friends grappling with the loss, who are now left searching for answers.
As news of the family’s identification spread, there was an outpouring of support and shared memories of the deceased from the community. A Facebook post fondly remembered Robyn for having “the biggest heart” and cherishing the friendship they had built over time.
Another post highlighted young Stormi’s captivating smile, terming it as “priceless.”
While the definitive cause of the explosion is yet to be pinpointed, it underscores the inherent risks present during renovation and construction endeavors.