Log in Subscribe
Cole tornado

Deadly tornado hits Cole

Multiple fatalities reported

Posted

A deadly tornado was responsible for two McClain County fatalities as it swept through Cole Wednesday evening about 7:40 p.m.
One of those killed has been identified as Michael Bradsher, 66, of McClain County.
Another female has not been identified by authorities yet.
The storm, rated as an EF-3, devastated homes and buildings in its path.
Utility crews were on site Thursday morning replacing power poles and repairing power and communication lines.
The storm was also responsible for damage in the Dibble area.
“We have finished our grid search and we’re moving into the security phase now to keep everything secured,” said McClain County Sheriff Landy Offolter.
State Senator Jessica Garvin toured the area late Wednesday.
“It was extremely dark, but even at night I could see the scope of the devastation was shocking,” Garvin said. “I’d ask for all Oklahomans to please pray for those impacted throughout the state, especially for the families of those who were killed, those injured in the storm and those who have been displaced.”
A Red Cross shelter was opened at the Washington Event Center Wednesday night after the storm moved out of the area.
“It’s a situation where we live in a very blessed place and it’s neighbors helping neighbors,” Washington Superintendant Chris Reynolds said. “Sen. Jessica Garvin said Goldsby had no power and I knew we had power at the Event Center. Within about two hours we were opened up and the Red Cross was there.”
McClain County Emergency Management Director Ron Johnson organized opening the shelter.
State Highway 74B was closed until mid-day Thursday as Oklahoma Department of Transportation crews restored the roadway.
“In the midst of the destruction, I witnessed the tireless efforts, not only by our first responders, but citizens within these communities as they immediately sprang into action to help each other,” Garvin said. “I was struck by how, on the anniversary of the Murrah bombing, we were seeing the Oklahoma Standard in action.”
Reynolds encourages anyone affected to utilize the resources provided by the Red Cross.
“People can come get help if they need it,” he said.
This story will continue to be updated.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here