Authorities say a mother and her teenage daughter were found deceased inside a vehicle following severe storms that moved through Major County, Oklahoma, on Thursday night.
According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the incident occurred near the intersection of Highway 60 and County Road 2435, close to the community of Fairview. Officials say the woman was driving in the area at around 10 p.m. when the severe weather was affecting parts of the region.
Troopers told local media that the woman had been on the phone with someone at the time, but the call was suddenly disconnected. After contact could not be re-established, she was reported missing.
During a search of the area, authorities later located the vehicle. Inside, troopers found the woman and her daughter unresponsive. Investigators reported that the vehicle showed signs of significant storm-related damage.
Officials identified the victims as Jodie Owens and her daughter, Lexi. Investigators noted that the condition of the vehicle suggested possible tornado-related damage, though authorities say they are still working to confirm whether a tornado directly caused the fatalities.
Severe storms moved across Oklahoma on Thursday, bringing strong winds and prompting tornado warnings in several areas of western and northern parts of the state. Emergency officials have continued assessing storm impacts as investigations into weather-related incidents move forward.
In response to the tragedy, Kevin Stitt released a statement expressing sympathy and saying his thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ family.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as crews continue evaluating storm damage across the region.
Severe weather can develop quickly and create dangerous conditions for those traveling. As communities review the impact of this storm system, an important question remains: what more can be done to keep people safe when extreme weather strikes?
