Firefighter among 17 dead in Laurel County, Kentucky after reported tornado
LAUREL COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — A Laurel County, Kentucky firefighter who was injured while responding to storm damage overnight is among the 17 people who died, according to officials.
The Laurel County Fire Department released Saturday afternoon that Major Roger Leslie Leatherman was fatally injured while responding to the reported tornado in Laurel County overnight.
Nine fatalities confirmed in Laurel County, Kentucky from reported tornado
'Major Leatherman was a dedicated public servant for 39 years, answering the call to protect and help others in their most critical time of need. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten,' The fire department wrote. 'Please keep Major Leatherman's family, friends, and fellow responders in your thoughts and prayers.'
The fire department said it is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers first responders face every day and the bravery they show in the face of disaster. They also asked everyone stay clear of the area as crews continue search and recovery efforts.
Knoxville restaurant collecting supplies for Laurel County, Kentucky storm victims
Saturday morning, the Laurel County Sheriff's Office reported that nine people in Laurel County died as a result of the severe storms overnight. As search efforts continued, that number grew. Just after 3 p.m., Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said 18 people had died in Kentucky because of the storm. Those numbers account for 17 fatalities in Laurel County and one in Pulaski County.
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