A devastating explosion rocked a home in Defiance, Missouri, leaving the community in shock and grief after the tragic loss of two young lives. Julian Keiser, 4, and his older brother Jamison Keiser, 6, were killed in the blast while at home due to school closures from severe weather. Miraculously, their mother, Evelyn Turpiano, along with their grandparents, Jennifer and Vern Ham, managed to escape unharmed.
Sharon Oberlag, a neighbor, spoke fondly of the boys, describing them as “the nicest little boys” who were always excited about going to school. The explosion occurred early on a Friday morning, and despite the brave efforts of firefighters, the boys could not be saved in time. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the explosion.
The home, which belonged to the Hoffmann Family of Companies, was part of a larger plan to turn the area into a wine region. The company expressed deep sorrow for the family’s loss and offered their support. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $145,000 to help with funeral expenses and to provide assistance to the grieving family. The boys are remembered for their joyful spirits and enthusiasm for life, and their untimely deaths have left the town in mourning.
