ELK CITY, Okla. – In western Oklahoma, a tornado ripped through Beckham County and killed one person Tuesday evening.
Beckham County Sheriff Derrick Manning identified the victim as 53-year-old Gene “Bo” Mikles.
Mikles had been inside a vehicle in a rural area south of Elk City, said Lonnie Risenhoover, the county’s emergency management director.
Risenhoover estimated that about 20 to 30 Elk City area-homes and businesses were damaged and said that crews were out overnight to help residents.
“It’s going to be a long night,” Risenhoover said.
The south side of Elk City was hit hardest by one storm, said Mayor Bill Helton.
“The damage is gut-wrenching,” he said.
Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin tweeted her thoughts and prayers to those affected.
My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the tornado in Elk City tonight.
— Governor Mary Fallin (@GovMaryFallin) May 17, 2017
On Wednesday, the governor traveled to Elk City to speak with emergency responders and toured the damage caused by Tuesday’s tornado.
I'm in Elk City touring damage from last night's tornado & visiting w/ our fellow Oklahomans who've lost their homes. #OklahomaStandard pic.twitter.com/99jFPHocP3
— Governor Mary Fallin (@GovMaryFallin) May 17, 2017
It is very reassuring to see first responders and so many Oklahomans helping out their neighbors in a time of need. #OklahomaStandard https://t.co/b4MmyiZ1EG
— Governor Mary Fallin (@GovMaryFallin) May 17, 2017
.@GovMaryFallin joined @CommJohnDoak, @okem Director Ashwood & @CityofElkCity officials on a tour of the tornado damage in Beckham County. pic.twitter.com/Y9pvpgbH94
— Oklahoma Insurance Department (@oid411) May 17, 2017
KFOR will have more on the governor’s tour this evening on NewsChannel 4.