Late Saturday night in Clark Mills, Oneida County, a violent storm unleashed destructive forces that claimed three lives. In one heartbreaking moment on Hoyland Avenue, 6‑year‑old twins Emily and Kenni Bisson lost their lives when a large tree smashed into their home while they slept. Nearby on Millstream Court, Shelly Johnson, 50, was killed after a second tree fell through her house. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that all three fatalities were caused by the severe storm, and the National Weather Service is now investigating whether a tornado or straight‑line winds caused the devastation.
A violent overnight storm ripped through Clark Mills in Oneida County late Saturday, leaving three people dead when powerful winds brought down trees onto residential homes.
According to Sheriff Robert Maciol, two separate incidents unfolded just hours apart. On Hoyland Avenue, a home occupied by a mother and her twin 6‑year‑old daughters, Emily and Kenni Bisson, was struck by a falling tree. The twins were tragically killed, and their mother was briefly trapped but survived. Nearby, on Millstream Court, a second tree collapsed onto another residence, killing 50‑year‑old Shelly Johnson.
Initial investigations suggest these deaths were directly caused by natural forces unleashed by the storm. The National Weather Service is still assessing whether a tornado—which produced winds estimated at up to 105 mph—or straight‑line winds were responsible. In response to the widespread damage, Governor Kathy Hochul issued a state of emergency for numerous counties across Central New York, as first responders worked to clear debris, restore power, and support affected families.
This tragedy highlights the dangers posed by severe storms and the importance of staying alert when weather conditions suddenly turn volatile. Officials urge residents to avoid downed power lines and stay clear of blocked roads until cleanup crews finish their work.
