Two individuals have been confirmed deceased following a series of tornadoes that struck Parker County and Wise County over the weekend. The Madrid family has shared that Juan Madrid, a devoted family man, will be profoundly missed by his loved ones.
Victims Identified
Authorities have identified two victims who lost their lives during the tornadoes that tore through the region on Saturday. Fifty-one-year-old Juan Madrid was killed in Runaway Bay, where his family endured significant injuries and their home was completely destroyed. Kathleen Lietzke was also confirmed dead after the tornado impacted Springtown.
In Runaway Bay, the tornado, classified as an EF-2, lifted the Madrid family’s mobile home, resulting in Juan’s tragic death. His wife and two adult children were in the house during the storm and sustained serious injuries. The family has resided in Wise County for many years, but their home now lies in ruins.
“They went to the property and described it as a horror story. There was nothing left; the house was gone, and his family was scattered around,” recounted Alisha Recklein, a friend of the Madrids. Both Juan’s wife and daughter have suffered broken bones, while his youngest son has numerous bruises and cuts. They are currently receiving medical care at a hospital in Dallas.
In a heartfelt statement, the Madrid family expressed their sorrow: “He was an amazing and hardworking husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He came to this country to provide a better life for his children and truly succeeded. He will be missed more than words can describe.” A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support the Madrid family during this difficult time.
In Springtown, the family of Kathleen Lietzke has confirmed her passing due to the tornado. While they seek privacy, they shared, “She was a doer and loved her family. She would do anything for them. We love her and will miss her deeply.”
Storm Devastation
Wise County Judge J.D. Clark reported at least one fatality in Runaway Bay and indicated that at least six others were injured, with 40 families displaced by the storms. A storm chaser captured images of a funnel cloud illuminated by lightning in the vicinity of Runaway Bay.
Local officials reported extensive damage following the severe thunderstorm that swept through the area on Saturday night. Emergency vehicles were observed along highways, with downed power lines and debris blocking roads. The National Weather Service had previously issued a Tornado Warning for Wise County, alerting residents to the potential for large hail and damaging winds.
Similarly, a Tornado Warning was also active for the Springtown area, where reports indicated that a structure had collapsed, potentially trapping individuals inside. Video footage showed significant damage to buildings, billboards, and vehicles in the region.
In southwestern Fort Worth, a vehicle was reportedly stranded in floodwaters as the slow-moving storm continued to impact the area on Saturday night.
