MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop I Headquarters, P.O. Box 128, Rolla, Mo 65402


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dan Crain
573-368-2345
January 3, 2011
I01B11

EMPHASIS: Troop I Thanks Community For Services During Aftermath Of Tornado



Captain Lee Ann H. Kenley, commanding officer of Troop I, would like to thank the many individuals, organizations, and emergency response departments within the Troop I community, who quickly reacted following the tornadoes that struck on December 31, 2010.
At approximately 10:00 a.m., the first report of a tornado touching down came from Ft. Leonard Wood, where over 80 homes were either destroyed or damaged. Approximately 30 minutes later, another tornado struck just north of Rolla, while a third was reportedly touching down in Dent County, near the community of Lecoma. In addition to the damaged property, the affected communities were devastated to learn that the storms took the lives of four individuals and injured six others. Immediately following the storms, local emergency management services were activated and along with law enforcement and fire departments, volunteers quickly responded.
Captain Kenley stated, “It was incredible to see the outpouring of assistance from the local churches and the Red Cross, who helped provide food and shelter, and the large number of citizens who responded to help their neighbors. We often see disasters striking other parts of our nation and are amazed each time with the community response. The immediate assistance offered by so many is a testament to the caring people within our Missouri communities. Unfortunately, there were a few reports of individuals who were attempting to pilfer and loot the lost property and treasures of others. One of the many functions of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies is to deter such unconscionable violations of law in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Fortunately, those who chose to help far outnumbered those with illegal intentions. Again, I would like to thank those who were willing to sacrifice their New Year's plans to help serve their fellow citizens."

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