HASKELL, Okla. — The bodies of a father and son were recovered in Muskogee County after they were swept away by floodwaters the evening of November 8.
According to officials, the father and son, identified as Lloyd and William Eubanks, were swept away while attempting to rescue Eubank's daughter, who had become trapped while clearing debris. They were able to get her to safety before they were caught in the water themselves. It happened along Birch St. near Haskell.
2 News Oklahoma's Clifton Haskell spoke with a woman who lives nearby. She said this was a tragic loss for the community.
Sonya Draper said she’s lived in the calm and quiet city of Haskell for 45 years. However, at about 8:00 PM on November 8, authorities said they responded to a call from Eubank's daughter, who said the father and son had been swept away by rising flood water.
“To see this happen around my neighborhood is shocking, too. I see it everywhere else in cities and states and stuff, but right here in the little town of Haskell, Oklahoma," said Draper.
Authorities warned everyone to be cautious of floodwater during heavy rain. They advised people not to walk or drive down a flooded road.
“Turn around or whatever, do not walk through it or whatever it takes just stay away from it and warn people that there’s water out there," said Draper.
Jeff Smith is the director of the Muskogee County Emergency Management.
“We do not enjoy responding to things like this. It’s a duty that we do not enjoy," said Smith.
Draper extended their condolences to the family affected.
“I’m praying for them, the family, and the whole Haskell community; we are praying for you all," said Draper.
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