FAIRVIEW, OK — A tragic scene unfolded in western Oklahoma late Thursday night, March 5, 2026, as a mother and her daughter were killed when a tornado struck their vehicle. The fatalities were confirmed by Major County Sheriff Tony Robinson following a search that utilized cell phone signals to locate the storm-battered car.
The incident occurred near the intersection of State Highway 60 and County Road 243, just west of Fairview, during a nighttime severe weather event that sparked multiple tornadoes across the Plains.
1. The Rescue Operation
The victims were reported missing around 11:50 p.m. local time after a phone call was abruptly disconnected during the peak of the storm.
- The Location: Search teams from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Major County Sheriff’s Office, and Oklahoma Game Wardens eventually found the damaged vehicle in an open field after pinging the mother’s phone.
- The Aftermath: Authorities found the mother and daughter deceased inside the vehicle. Their names have not yet been released pending full family notification.
2. Governor Stitt Extends Condolences
Governor Kevin Stitt responded to the tragedy early Friday morning, emphasizing the ongoing danger as the storm system continues to move through the region.
- A Call for Safety: “I am praying for the family as they grieve this tragic loss,” Stitt posted on X. He urged Oklahomans to remain “weather aware,” noting that more risks are expected through the weekend.
3. The Outbreak: Damage Across the State
The National Weather Service (NWS) reported at least seven tornado sightings on Thursday night across the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
- Major County: In addition to the fatalities, high winds overturned a semi-trailer near Fairview.
- Grant & Alfalfa Counties: At least four tornadoes touched down in these areas, snapping power lines, uprooting trees, and damaging several homes and structures.
- Hazardous Conditions: Several storm chasers reportedly wrecked their vehicles in northwestern Oklahoma due to poor visibility and torrential rain during the overnight event.
Severe Weather Statistics: March 5-6, 2026
| Metric | Details |
| Confirmed Fatalities | 2 (Mother and Daughter) |
| Tornado Touchdowns | At least 4 in Oklahoma (Grant, Alfalfa, Major counties) |
| Hail Size | Golf ball to lime-sized reported |
| Wind Impact | Semi-trailers overturned; utility poles snapped |
| Current Warning | Level 3 of 5 Risk for Central/Eastern Oklahoma (Friday night) |