WHITMORE LAKE, MICHIGAN – A tragedy struck in Washtenaw County, Michigan, as a suspected gas explosion claimed the lives of a well-known forestry scientist, his wife, and their two adult children. The family, known for their significant contributions to archeology in Arkansas, were visiting Michigan for the holidays when the explosion occurred, leaving devastation in its wake.
The Northfield Township Police revealed the identities of the victims as 51-year-old Hope Bragg, 53-year-old Don Bragg, 22-year-old Kenneth Bragg, and 19-year-old Elizabeth Bragg. The explosion, which occurred about 10 miles north of Ann Arbor, left the couple’s 16-year-old son, Stephen Bragg, in stable condition.
According to police reports, the explosion, which is suspected to be caused by a gas leak, completely destroyed the property and left the owner, Richard Pruden, critically injured. In response to the tragic event, fundraising pages were set up to support the recovery of Stephen Bragg and to aid with Richard Pruden’s medical expenses.
The Bragg family was well-known for their support of various research and educational initiatives. Don Bragg, in particular, served as the project leader of the Southern Research Station of US Department of Agriculture Forest Service, while his wife, Hope, was an instructor for the 4-H youth service program at the University of Arkansas. Their son, Kenneth, was also actively involved in volunteering for archeological research in the state.
Members of the Arkansas Archeological Society expressed their grief, highlighting the family’s significant contributions to archeological research in the state. The tragic incident took place on Saturday evening, with the explosion leaving a debris field covering approximately two acres. Three victims were found dead at the scene, while three others were transported to a nearby hospital, one of whom later succumbed to their injuries.
The Bragg family’s sudden and devastating loss has shaken their community and the broader academic and archeological world, leaving a void that will be deeply felt. This tragedy not only marks the loss of a family but also mourns the absence of their impactful work and contributions to the field of archeology.