Tragic Storm Incident Claims Lives of Twin Sisters in Upstate New York
In a heartbreaking incident in Clark Mills, New York, two young twin girls lost their lives when a powerful storm brought down a tree onto their home. Six-year-old sisters Emily and Kenni Bisson were asleep in their beds early Sunday morning when winds gusting up to 95 miles per hour carried an EF-1 tornado through the area.
The storm’s impact was catastrophic. A large maple tree crashed through the roof of the Bisson home, causing destruction that reached all floors of the house. Their mother, Kayleigh Bisson, 37, was also in the home when the tragedy struck.
Neighbors described the horrifying moments that followed. Jared Bowman, who lived nearby, rushed to help upon hearing the noise. He witnessed Kayleigh trying to escape through a window, panic etched on her face. Bowman recounted her desperate cries for help, urgently calling out for her daughters. “She was yelling, ‘Get my kids out!’ But it felt eerily quiet,” he said.
Rick Carollo, another neighbor and a member of the local fire department, was jolted awake by the noise. He quickly received a message alerting him that help was needed next door. Upon arrival, he found Kayleigh scrambling to escape. Despite his efforts to search through the debris, he tragically reported discovering one of the girls without a pulse.
First responders arrived to find the scene devastating. Both Emily and Kenni were pronounced dead at the site. The family had only moved into their home a few months prior, looking forward to a new chapter, unaware of the calamity that awaited them.
The twins were beloved in their community, attending Clinton Elementary School. Superintendent Christopher Clancy expressed his condolences, stating, “Today, our community faced a severe weather emergency that has resulted in the tragic loss of life, including two of our own students.” He highlighted that support services would be made available to help students and families grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy.
In a GoFundMe set up to assist the family with funeral expenses, the girls were described as vibrant spirits who brought joy to all. Known for their enthusiasm, laughter, and bright smiles, Emily and Kenni participated in numerous activities, including softball, soccer, dance, and gymnastics—their vibrant personalities making a lasting mark on those around them.
In addition to the loss of the twins, the storm’s violence resulted in another fatal incident in the area. A 50-year-old woman named Shelly Johnson lost her life when a tree fell onto her home while she slept.
The effects of the storm were severe enough for Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency in 32 counties across New York, citing the severe weather and forecasts for extreme heat. The National Weather Service is sending out teams to assess the widespread damage in Clark Mills and surrounding areas.
As the community mourns this incredible loss, it serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the fragility of life. The stories of Emily and Kenni will continue to resonate, highlighting the profound impact they had in their short lives and the love they brought to everyone who knew them.
