Oklahoma couple has their son to thank for saving them when a tornado tossed their truck into trees.
When tornadoes strike, they often leave a trail of destruction, affecting lives and properties. On April 27, a tornado ravaged Oklahoma, claiming four lives, according to KKTV. The tornado displaced thousands from their homes. Amid the devastation, a 9-year-old boy heroically saved his parents after their truck was hurled into trees by the tornado.
The Oklahoma couple, Wayne and Lindy Baker, along with their 9-year-old son, Branson, were en route to a friend's storm shelter in Dickson when an EF4 tornado intercepted their path. Their plans took a drastic turn when powerful winds lifted their truck and tossed it into a pile of trees, injuring both parents.
Miraculously, Branson did not sustain any injuries. He was able to get out of the truck and run for help in the dark, making his way through damaged power lines and debris. The 9-year-old had his task cut out and ran miles to find help for his injured parents. Thankfully, Branson found sufficient assistance in time to rescue his parents and admit them to the OU Medical Center.
Wayne and Lindy Baker were badly affected by the accident. They suffered broken backs, necks, and ribs. Wayne also broke his sternum and arm, as well as lost part of his finger. On the other hand, Lindy’s jaw and right hand broke. She also suffered a punctured lung.
Branson’s uncle, Johnny Baker, described the tornado as "one of the most horrific things I’ve ever seen in my life." He also praised Branson's heroic efforts, "The only way he found his way back is lightning strikes. Every time there was a lightning strike, it would light up the road. He ran as fast as he could, as hard as he could. He probably made a mile in 10 minutes, and that’s pretty impressive for a little kid."
Johnny also shared Branson’s reassuring words to his parents: "Mom, Dad, please don’t die. I’ll be back." Branson's parents own a contracting business, but their injuries will keep them out of work for some time. To assist the Oklahoma couple, Branson’s baseball team held a fundraiser during a game night, with all the players wearing stickers on their helmets to support the family. A GoFundMe initiative has also been set up to help the family recover.