NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Metro Nashville Police have identified the three people killed when a suspected tornado hit Madison Saturday.
Officials said Joseph Dalton, 37, Floridema Gabriel Perez, 31, and her son, Anthony Elmer Mendez, 2, died in the storm. Dalton was inside his mobile home on Nesbitt Lane when the strength of the storm rolled it on top of Perez’s residence, according to police.
Perez’s 7-year-old son and Dalton’s 10-year-old son were both inside their homes at the time. Both were transported to Vanderbilt Pediatrics with injuries.
Metro Schools issued a response:
Three Nashvillians lost their lives in Saturday’s tornadoes, including the parent of an elementary student. Our heartfelt condolences have been extended to our student and their family, and our support is offered to all who are working to rebuild their homes and lives. At schools today, our Student Support Services and Community Achieves staff have been connecting with students, families and staff to offer any needed support.
Those who have been affected by the storms can register with Nashville Responds to request assistance and those wishing to volunteer or donate also can find information on the site as well. Nashville has experienced tragic events before, and we’re proud we always come together to ensure our community has the resources and support they need to heal and be made whole again. Especially during difficult times, we are committed to ensuring that every student is known, cared for, and supported.
Hear from residents near the damage in the players above.
Mayor Freddie O'Connell issued a state of emergency for Metro and Davidson counties.
"First responders are still working across the county to get to some hard-to-reach areas, and our Emergency Operations Center is operating," a statement from O'Connell said.
NEO as well as Nashville Fire Department are on scene and asking people to avoid the area an do not approach power lines, as there is significant damage. Metro Police say multiple power lines are down along Gallatin North / OHB area.
Some were transported with injuries, MPD says.
What happened?
Around 4 p.m. on Saturday, officials say severe weather came through northern parts of Metro Nashville Davidson County.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning after radar confirmed a tornado located near Whites Bluff, moving East at 40 miles per hour.
Nashville Office of Emergency Management says initial reports from this area included a building collapse at the Community Church, 3838 Dickerson Pike, with occupants. The Nashville Fire Department safely transported 13 survivors in stable condition from the location, NOE says.
What is happening now?
Metro Police Department's Urban Search and Rescue team is on the ground helping to clear the impacted areas, and officers are working on road closures for Madison and North Nashville. Shelters are open for anyone who needs them.
This is a developing story, and we will update you as we have more information.
We know these tornadoes are heartbreaking. Here's how you can help
The loss created by these storms is heartbreaking. Our NewsChannel 5 team wants to help, and we know that you do too.
That is why we are partnering with United Way and Community Foundation to raise money for tornado victims. Through the emergency response fund, you can designate whether you want your money to go to Davidson County or the surrounding counties.
Everything you give will go to help victims of the storm.
NewsChannel 5 is also providing $5,000 in matching money to get donations started in both funds.
