Emily and Kenni Bisson were known for their bright smiles and boundless energy. Today, their small town is wrapped in grief.
A Storm’s Brutal Path
At roughly 4 a.m. Sunday, winds topping 95 mph tore through Clark Mills, New York, as an EF-1 tornado swept the region. A towering maple tree crashed through the roof of the Bisson family’s home, punching down from the second story to the first, where Emily and Kenni, both 6, slept beside their mother, Kayleigh Bisson, 37.
Heroic—but Heart-Wrenching—Rescue Attempts
Neighbors awoke to the sound of splintering wood and Kayleigh’s screams.
- Rick Carollo, a Clark Mills firefighter, climbed debris to pull Kayleigh through a shattered window.
- Jared Bowman, another neighbor, rushed over as Kayleigh cried out: “Get my kids out!”
First responders reached the twins quickly, but both were pronounced dead at the scene. Kayleigh suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Loss Felt Across Clinton Elementary
Emily and Kenni were first-graders at Clinton Elementary School and fixtures of local softball, soccer, dance, and gymnastics teams.
“Our hearts are with all of the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy,” Superintendent Christopher Clancy wrote in a letter to parents, adding that grief counselors will be available for students.
A GoFundMe page describes the girls as “walking through life smiling, dancing, and belly-laughing,” beloved for their artwork and infectious joy.
A Second Life Lost, State of Emergency Declared
Elsewhere in Oneida County, Shelly Johnson, 50, was killed the same night when a tree crashed through her roof. In response to widespread damage and forecasted extreme heat, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in 32 counties.
The National Weather Service will inspect storm damage in Clark Mills to verify the tornado’s strength and path.
Remembering Emily and Kenni
The Bisson family had lived in their house only a few months, but neighbors say the twins made an impact that will last far longer.
“They always kept everyone smiling and reminded us what life is about,” a family friend wrote. “Their laughter could fill a room—and now our town feels painfully quiet.”
Donations to help Kayleigh cover funeral expenses and rebuild her life can be made through the family’s verified GoFundMe page.
As Clark Mills gathers for vigils and school opens its doors to counselors, one sentiment echoes through the community: two small girls showed an entire town the power of joy—and that legacy will not be forgotten.