Jefferson County Tornado Leaves 1 Dead, Several Injured

JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL — Severe thunderstorms and at least one tornado swept through Jefferson County Monday night and early Tuesday morning, causing massive damage to property and roadways, killing at least one person.

The tornado reported in Fultondale resulted in one death and injured several other residents. The person killed was identified as 14-year-old Elliott Hernandez, who was trapped in the basement of his home, according to police.

Hernandez was a student at Fultondale High School.

Early Tuesday morning Fultondale Mayor Larry Holcomb said in a live interview with WIAT that the city has received about 30 reports of minor injuries, including scratches and bruises, after the storm passed through. Of those injured, 18 have been hospitalized.

"There are still people trapped in their homes that we are trying to access at this time," Holcomb said. He added that rescue teams from Gardendale, Birmingham, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Tarrant and Center Point are assisting.

As of 10 a.m. Tuesday, six more people were discovered in search efforts, but none of those people had sustained serious injuries.

Gardendale Civic Center has opened as a storm shelter for anyone who has damage to their home from the storm.

"The people of Fultondale took a hard hit last night — I’m grieved over the loss of life, injuries, homes & damaged businesses," Gov. Kay Ivey said via social media Tuesday. "I offer my prayers & deepest sympathies & pledge the full support & resources our state has to offer. I am with you, Fultondale!"

Several Jefferson County schools were forced to close for the day Tuesday as power outages and road closures are widespread from Fultondale into Center Point in the aftermath of the storm.

"We are working with crews to help clean up from last night devastating tornado," The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency said in a statement Tuesday. "Please stay away from the following areas due to downed power lines, it is a very dangerous situation. Carson Road; New Castle Rd. between Carson and Pine Hill, Pine Hill Road and Indian Valley Road."