Spring storm causes severe destruction

ELLIS COUNTY – As severe thunderstorm and tornado watches and warnings moved through Ellis County Monday evening, officials said late that it was likely a tornado that passed over I-35 in Waxahachie and caused motorist injuries.

Ellis County Public Information Officer Corey Rogan said around 11:45 p.m. Monday night, “A multi-vehicle incident has occurred on I-35E near Forreston.”

Rogan said it was believed a tornado had touched down on the highway, leading to the accident, which closed that section of I-35 down for hours. 

Southbound traffic on I-35 was being re-routed onto 77 as of about midnight Monday night, and emergency services were transporting individuals from the scene. 

Power was also down in the area just after the storm, and Rogan said Oncor Electric was en-route to the area to restore power.

Officers also remained on the scene until the morning hours searching the Forreston area for those who needed assistance. DPS, AMR, and the Red Cross were aiding a search and rescue effort near the incident site where cars were damaged and a big rig had been overturned due to either a tornado or high winds.

Videos taken reportedly showed 18-wheelers, common on I-35 in Waxahachie, tossed around like Matchbox cars. 

The Texas Department of Public Safety reported at least three drivers were taken to nearby Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Waxahachie. According to DPS, one of the drivers was in serious condition.

Rogan said The National Weather Service will survey damage in the morning.