Elderly couple, farmer killed in tornado

CINCINNATI, AR — The Washington County Sheriff's Office says the three people killed in an early morning tornado are an elderly couple and a farmer who died while milking cows in his dairy barn.

Sheriff Tim Helder says the Friday morning twister killed 88-year-old Gerald Wilson, and his wife, 78-year-old Mamie Wilson. They were in their rural Washington County home when the twister struck around 6 a.m. Friday. Also killed in the storm was 78-year-old Dick Murray, who was milking cows when the tornado hit.

In Washington County there are an estimated 14 homes and one business with damages. A feeding center has been set up at the United Methodist Church in Cincinnati on Hwy 59.

Benton County Emergency Management has reported five injured. Damage estimates are 13 homes and 5 businesses. The airport has re-opened.

Madison County Emergency Management has reported two unoccupied mobile homes damaged and trees down around Clifty.

Fulton County Emergency Management has reported damage to the Jim Hinkle Fish Hatchery on the Spring River. They have also reported some minor home damage. There are no reported injuries at this time.

The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department says several highways in the area have been closed because of downed trees and debris in the roadway.