Marathon County Sheriff: “I have never seen devastation like this”
WSAW • • nation
Key Points:
- A tornado caused catastrophic damage in Ringle, Wisconsin, damaging 75 homes and prompting search and rescue efforts on Friday evening; fortunately, no injuries or deaths were reported.
- The hardest-hit area was a residential subdivision near River Road, with several homes demolished and minor damage to Riverside Elementary; displaced residents were relocated to D.C. Everest Middle School.
- Emergency crews conducted thorough checks to ensure no one remained inside damaged properties, and a MABAS box alarm was issued for additional support from neighboring departments.
- Marathon County Sheriff Chad Billeb described the destruction as unprecedented in his 34 years, noting that many residents will require significant assistance, with plans underway to establish a benefit fund for those affected.
- The tornado originated in Kronenwetter and moved north to Ringle, also causing damage near County Highway O in Stettin.
