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Seven people killed in deadly Alabama tornadoes identified as six counties announce state of emergency

As per authorities, 13 severe tornadoes ripped through Albaman till Saturday, January 14, destroying properties, toppling houses, and taking lives

AUTAUGA COUNTY, ALABAMA: Four members of a family were among the seven people killed in the deadly tornadoes that tore through Autauga County, Alabama, on Thursday, January 12, 2023. The names were made public by the Autauga County Sheriff's Office on Saturday, January 14.

The deaths took place in Old Kingston, which is located along Autauga County 140. The victims' ages range from 21 to 70. As the victims were identified, at least six counties were put into a state of emergency at the time of writing.

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The 800 block of Sandy Ridge Road saw the deaths of Deanna Marie Corbin, 59, and Robert Gardner, 70, who lived together in the same house. In the 1000 block of Sandy Ridge Road, two people who died were identified as Tessa Celeste Desmet, 21, and Christopher Allen Corbin, 46. Both Desmet and Corbin shared a home. They are related to Deanna Corbin and Robert Gardner from the 800 blocks, according to AL.com.

Carmen Cox Autery, 59, died in the 1000 block of Sandy Ridge Road. The 800 block of County Road 140 is where Andrea Sue Taylor, 61, was last seen on Thursday. Her body was found early on Friday morning.

Solomon Smith, 50, died in the 900 block of County Road 140. Smith's sister Stephanie Brown confirmed to the outlet on Friday that Smith had died and her house, which is also on Autauga County 140, had been destroyed. Brown reported that Smith's stepson was hurt and received medical attention at UAB Hospital.

As per authorities, 13 severe tornadoes ripped through Albaman till Saturday, January 14, destroying properties and toppling houses. The National Weather Service designated the Autauga County tornado as an EF-3, the one responsible for taking lives and injuring many more. The weather service estimated that the Autauga storm had winds as strong as 150 mph.

"Take SHELTER IMMEDIATELY," news channels reported as an emergency was also issued for Autauga County for life-threatening situations. Alabama Governor Ivey Kay declared a state of emergency for six counties, including Autauga County, following the storms. The counties of Chambers, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, and Tallapoosa were also included in the declaration.

Meanwhile, the search is underway for those missing after the storms, with cleaning crews putting in recovery efforts.