A winter storm moved into the region on Jan. 23 and continued through the weekend leaving streets covered with ice.
Bryan County EMS paramedic Mindi Welch died after falling outdoors, according to EMS Chief Brian Norton, who said they are waiting on the State Medical Examiner to determine cause of death.
EMS is asking for donations to help Welch’s family.
“Mindi was a paramedic at Bryan County EMS for eight years, dedicating her time, energy, skills and most importantly, her heart to serve our community.” the Bryan County Medics Association said, in a social media post.
She leaves behind two young children.
Donations can be made through: CashApp @BryanCoMedics128, Venmo @ BryanCounty-MedicsAssociation, PayPal @BryanCoMedcs, and Vision Bank 1273606.
Streets were slick and emergency officials encouraged residents to avoid driving on them.
In an update Tuesday morning, the Durant Police Department said that major thoroughfares throughout the city were beginning to clear and becoming more favorable for traveling.
Since the storm began, DPD had assisted 122 motorists as of Tuesday morning.
Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troop E Commander Scott Hampton said OHP responded to multiple collisions and disabled vehicles.
Area schools, Durant City Hall and the Bryan County Courthouse were among places closed Monday and Tuesday. Southeastern and Durant Schools announced at press time that they were closed on Wednesday.
The weight of the ice caused damage to some structures, including an awning that collapsed at Welborn Music in downtown Durant. There also was damage to marinas at Lake Texoma.
Robert Holliday, community affairs manager for OG&E, said there were very few power outages. OG&E had trucks stationed at the Durant Multi-Sports Complex prior to the storm.
“We were prepared for the worst, but thank goodness, it didn’t happen,” Holliday said. “Thank the Lord.”
There were some power outages in the county. 1.5” X 3.7”
A bench on Main Street in downtown Durant was covered with ice.
