Coroner: 4 dead following Wynne tornado, door-to-door searches end

WYNNE, Ark. (KAIT) – Four people died and dozens more were hurt when a strong tornado moved through the Cross County town of Wynne Friday, according to Cross Co. Coroner Eli Long.

28 additional people were injured and were transported to CrossRidge Community Hospital in Wynne, the hospital’s associate administrator Brian Mattes told ABC News. He said the staff of the hospital “handled it well” and was “well staffed” for the emergency.

Wynne Mayor Jennifer Hobbs said crews have worked through the night and they are working on rescuing trapped people, clearing the streets, and securing damaged property.

Hobbs wanted to thank everyone for reaching out and supporting the community.

Shelters and feeding centers are in place at the Assembly of God on Killough Rd, Wynne Baptist Church on Bridges Ave, the O’Dell McCallum Center, and Wynne Junior High School.

A curfew put in place at 10 p.m. Friday night allowed search and rescue crews to finish door-to-door rescues around 1 a.m. The curfew was lifted at 6 a.m.

Volunteers wanting to help with efforts Saturday morning can start gathering in town around 7 a.m.

A donation center is set up at 187 Murray Ave in Wynne, according to the city’s Facebook page. They will start accepting donations at 8:00am.

According to Wynne Police Chief Richard Dennis, there is “total destruction throughout the town.” He added that dozens of people are trapped.

He is asking for anyone who has not been injured in the storm to stay where they are until emergency services have gotten a chance to reach the people who need them. If you are one of the people needing help in Cross County, call (870) 238-5700. This phone number will direct your various resources if you have been impacted by the damage.

Emerson Ambulance Service said they have sent units out to help with rescue efforts. Medic One has reported three units of theirs are also headed over.

Photos shared by viewers on social media show the Wynne High School damaged along with several homes in the area.

Region 8 News will continue to follow this developing story as more details come through.

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