Governor confirms Ruston in state of emergency after tornado claims Kendra Butler and Remington Butler and injures many more

Governor John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency for the tornadoes and storms occurring April 24, 2019 and going into April 25,  2019. Tragically, two people were killed in the storms: Grambling alumnus and current masters student in sports administration Kendra Butler, age 35, and her son, Remington Butler, age 14.

The governor said the declaration would be in effect until May 25, 2019.

“First and foremost, Donna and I send our prayers and condolences to the families of those who were killed this morning and to the people of north Louisiana," Governor Edwards said. "We are grateful for the local officials and emergency responders who quickly took action in the immediate aftermath of these storms.”

The governor's office said assistance is being sent to all affected areas and that all state resources will be available to help citizens and local governments recover from this tragic event.

"At this time, we are continuing to assess the ground conditions in Ruston and the surrounding areas, and we are monitoring weather conditions throughout the state," the governor added.

In addition, he reminded Louisianans that the problem of the storms is not over, and he urged local citizens to watch local media outlets for more information.  In closing, he asked citizens to "stay safe."