SOUTH JORDAN — Neighbors of the 15-year-old Bingham High student killed in a house explosion are surrounding the boy’s family with support after losing their son and their home.
Utility crews worked late into the evening Thursday around 10500 S. 3200 West, where the home used to stand. Neighbors approached the metal fence before the property, looking out over a dark heap of destruction.
Neighbors of the 15-year-old jumped into action with blue ribbons and blue lights in honor of the boy. Lindsay Chatterton said it was the boy’s favorite color.
“The blue, it’s just neighbors wanting to show support and love for the family,” Chatterton said. “It’s just our way of being able to let them know that we are here for them and love them.”
CJ Mansfield, who lives next door, said it’s been overwhelming to see the damage from the explosion.
While the South Jordan Fire Department has determined a natural gas leak as the cause, the department said in a press release Thursday that the source is still under investigation as they determine exactly where and how the leak originated.
“Additional investigators will be working at the scene through the weekend and hope to have more information available by early next week,” the statement read.
Mansfield is saddened by what the family is going through.
“A 15-year-old boy, it’s heartbreaking,” he said. “Just tragic.”
Mansfield said his daughter is close in age to the next-door neighbor teen, and they carpooled together to school.
“She’s heartbroken and reaching out to some of their friends,” he explained.
As teens and classmates support one another, Mansfield described how parents are coming together as well.
“I think it’s kind of struck a chord with everybody,” he said.
Neighbors were quick to organize supplies for the family and set up a GoFundMe* fundraiser. People have been reaching out, he said, offering places to stay.
On Thursday night, they lit up the neighborhood in blue.
“I just hope they know that we care,” Mansfield said. “And, you know, everybody’s here to support them in whatever way we possibly can.”
In a statement to KSL TV, the Jordan School District said, “We are saddened by this loss, and our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the student’s family, friends, and neighbors at this difficult time.”
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
