18-Year-Old Black Teen From Mississippi Dies During Tornado, Tree Falls on Her Home

Nationwide — Ty’Keria Rogers, an 18-year-old African American teen from Natchez, Mississippi, tragically died when a tree fell on her home’s porch during a severe tornado on December 28. Despite efforts to rescue her, she did not survive.

Emergency responders worked to save Ty’Keria by using chainsaws to remove tree branches, but her injuries were too severe and she did not survive, according to WLBT. Two others were injured, though their conditions remain unclear.

Ty’Keria, a senior student and cheerleader captain at Natchez High School, was set to graduate in May. The school honored her with a candlelight vigil on December 29 and shared a heartfelt tribute on social media.

“Ty’Keria was a bright light in our school and community, known for her talent, energy, and uplifting spirit. Her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts,” the school posted on Facebook.

Natchez Adams School District Superintendent Zandra McDonald shared her emotional reaction to the tragedy, recalling the painful scene as first responders searched for Ty’Keria through the debris. She said, “As I watched a mama, grandmother, aunts and uncles pace, cry and scream in agony — no words.”

McDonald remembered Ty’Keria as “energetic, funny, and personable” and urged the community to pray for her family and loved ones.

A GoFundMe has been set up to support the family with funeral expenses and home repairs after the storm. It has so far raised over $100,000.