Residents in Benton County, Arkansas are grappling with the aftermath of a series of storms that unleashed multiple tornadoes, claiming the lives of four individuals, according to county officials.
The latest victim, a 61-year-old woman, was discovered in Little Sugar Creek on May 28, marking the fourth death attributed to the severe weather that wreaked havoc in the region. Benton County coroner Daniel Oxford revealed that the woman’s demise has been linked to the destructive storms that swept through the area, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
Tragically, the death toll includes a woman who perished when her oxygen device failed due to power outages, an 80-year-old resident who had her home struck by a falling tree in Monte Ne, and a 59-year-old individual who lost his life while kayaking on Sugar Creek on that fateful Sunday morning.
While initial reports suggested another death was due to a heart attack triggered by the storms, further investigation has since ruled out that attribution, illustrating the complexities of assessing storm-related fatalities.
As the community mourns the loss of these individuals and grapples with the emotional and physical toll inflicted by the recent natural disasters, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential future severe weather events.
The resilience and unity of Benton County residents have been on display as they come together to support one another in the face of adversity, highlighting the strength of community bonds in times of crisis.