02/22/2026
Hertford County Update – Perdue Feed Mill Incident
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2026
Hertford County Confirms Fatality Following Perdue Feed Mill Explosion
HERTFORD COUNTY, N.C. – Hertford County officials have confirmed that the body of the previously missing individual has been located following the explosion at the Perdue feed mill facility in Cofield.
The individual was recovered earlier today. The body will be transported to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for formal identification and determination of the official cause of death.
All of our local volunteer fire departments have now cleared the scene. The incident required a multi-day response involving fire suppression, extensive search operations, structural stabilization, and coordinated recovery efforts under difficult and hazardous conditions.
“This was an incredibly difficult and emotionally taxing operation for everyone involved. Our focus remained on supporting the family, protecting our responders, and serving the Cofield community. We are deeply grateful for the dedication shown by our volunteers and partner agencies.”
— Christian Davies, Public Information Officer
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of the victims, our first responders, and the entire Cofield community during this incredibly difficult time.
Volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel spent countless hours on scene, many away from their own families, working tirelessly to ensure public safety and bring resolution to this incident. Hertford County extends its sincere gratitude to those volunteers for their dedication and service.
We are also deeply thankful for the partnership and support provided by local, state, regional, and federal agencies throughout this extended response. Additionally, we recognize and appreciate the generosity of our local restaurants and community partners who provided meals and support to crews operating during this multi-day event.
The investigation into the cause of the explosion remains ongoing. Updates will be provided as additional confirmed information becomes available.
Out of respect for the family, we ask that the community refrain from speculation as the investigation continues.