Neighbor Recalls a Mother’s Devastating Cry as Her 6-Year-Old Twin Daughters Die in a Violent Storm

Tornado Also Claims Another Life Nearby

Elsewhere in Oneida County, the storm claimed another life. Shelly Johnson, 50, was killed in her home on Millstream Court when a tree fell through her roof as she lay in bed. Like the twins, she was also pronounced dead at the scene.

In Vienna, a separate town in the same county, a tree fell onto a camper shortly after 4 a.m., seriously injuring two occupants. Emergency personnel rescued the victims and transported them to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse.

Heartbreak at Clinton Elementary School

Back at Clinton Elementary School, where Emily and Kenni were in first grade, the tragedy left classmates and teachers devastated. Superintendent Christopher Clancy shared a heartfelt message with families:

“Our hearts are with all of the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.”

School was canceled on Monday, and grief counselors were made available starting Tuesday.

Community Rallies Around Grieving Mother

The Bisson family had only recently moved into their rental home. A GoFundMe campaign launched for Kayleigh Bisson, a single mother, quickly surpassed $300,000 in donations.

“She lost everything—children, house, clothing, and memories,” the page reads.

The twin girls were remembered as joyful, vibrant children who loved soccer, softball, gymnastics, and dance.

“They walked through life smiling, dancing, and belly laughs that lasted for days.”

Statewide Emergency Declared

The tornado was part of a larger system of severe thunderstorms sweeping through New York. In response to the widespread destruction and a forecast of extreme heat, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency across 32 counties.

Emergency support came from the Clark Mills Fire Department, New York State Police, Town of Kirkland Police Department, and several volunteer fire and public safety agencies. A local senior center opened to provide shelter and services to displaced residents.

As crews continue to clear debris and restore power, the sound of chainsaws and emergency vehicles still echoes through the devastated hamlet.

The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences:
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to the families involved during this difficult time.”

If you’d like to help the Bisson family, please visit their GoFundMe page to donate or share their story.
Let us know in the comments how you’re coping with this tragic event or if you’ve been impacted by severe weather in your area.