CMU worker dies in lagoon

The body of a Canton Municipal Utilities worker found in a lagoon off of Kings Ranch Road last Thursday has been identified as 59-year-old Lionnel Bacon.

Bacon was first reported missing around 1 a.m. Thursday by his family after he did not return home from work.

His CMU pickup truck was discovered just off of King Ranch Road hours later, and later that morning around 11 a.m., his body was recovered from a nearby lagoon off of Heindl Road.

Madison County Chief Deputy Sheriff Jeremy Williams said Monday that investigators had sent the body to the State Medical Examiner's office in an effort to determine a cause of death, but cautioned that it could be weeks before they receive results.

"It could be weeks under normal circumstances," Williams said. "But with everything that's going on and the workload they've taken on during the virus, it could be longer - and that's just for preliminary results."

Meanwhile, the community at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Camden is mourning.

"To our St. John family and our Bacon family, we know that it is not ever easy to accept the transition of a loved one from Earth to Heaven," the church posted online. "Never feel like you're alone. The Father is with you every moment, through every tear, every smile, through every memory. Stay strong family and may God strengthen you as we remember our brother in Christ Jesus Lionnel Bacon."

A small memorial cross adorned with flowers has been placed near the unpaved road that leads to the lagoon.

"A special prayer for Mrs. Bacon and the kids," retired Velma Jackson Elementary teacher Amanda Lacy posted online Sunday. "You all hold a special place in my heart... love you."