The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency has released additional information about the Texico area tornado late Sunday afternoon, including the names of the two women who were killed in their mobile homes.
They are 83-year-old Delores Shelton and 62-year-old Sarita Kimble, who list addresses in Mt. Vernon.
The agency confirms at least three residences were destroyed, with several others sustaining varying levels of damage. Five individuals were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening
injuries. At least four roads were blocked due to significant debris and downed trees. Numerous power lines were down, but power was restored later in the event.
The Jefferson County EMA reports that cleanup and recovery efforts are underway, with volunteer groups, including the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, working alongside government agencies to assist residents in the impacted areas. Currently, multiple Damage Assessment Teams are actively surveying the impacted area.
Officials advise that individuals without emergency business should continue to avoid the northeastern section of Jefferson County to allow responders and cleanup crews to work safely and efficiently.
The agency is expressing its sincere gratitude to all first responders, volunteers, and partner agencies for their swift and dedicated response during this tragic event.
Residents seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RedCross for more information. The Red Cross has opened a reception center at the Rolland Lewis Building, 800 S. 27th Street in Mt. Vernon for anyone needing assistance.
Bryan Jennings at the Mt. Vernon Fire Department is assisting those who wish to donate. His number is (618) 316-9303.
Multiple agencies responded to assist with emergency operations, including Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency, City of Mt. Vernon Emergency Management Agency, Jefferson County Sheriff, Mt. Vernon Police Department, Illinois State Police, Mt. Vernon Fire Department, Jefferson Fire Protection District, Waltonville Fire Department, Woodlawn Fire Department, Webber Fire Department, Irvington Fire, Kell Fire, Litton Ambulance, United Medical Response, Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Jefferson County Coroner, Jefferson County 911 Dispatch and City of Mt. Vernon 911 Dispatch. Their coordinated efforts focused on search and rescue, medical response, and securing impacted areas.
