At approximately 9 a.m. Saturday, March 21, searchers located the sixth and last missing victim from Sanes Creek near Laurel in Franklin County, after floodwaters swept two vehicles from the roadway Friday morning.
The victims from one vehicle have been identified as Shawn Roberts, 47, and Burton Spurlock, 48, both of Laurel.
The victims from the second vehicle have been identified as Felina Lewis, 35, of Laurel and three juveniles, ages 13, 7 and 4. All were pronounced deceased by the Franklin County coroner.
Next of kin has been notified for all victims.
“We are extremely thankful for the overwhelming outpouring of support by all agencies involved, as well as the many community members who assisted in search efforts,” said Franklin County Sheriff Pete Cates.
The search began at approximately 5 a.m. when Franklin County 911 received a call from a witness who reported seeing headlights off the roadway and hearing calls for help coming from an area near the intersection of Sanes Creek and Tee Hill roads.
Responding authorities discovered the bridge over Sanes Creek had been partially washed away.
An initial search located one vehicle, and a second vehicle was located a short time later. At 2 p.m., four deceased victims had been recovered and the search continued for two more individuals.
The fifth victim was found at about 3 p.m. Friday. Search operations were suspended in the evening because of darkness.
Agencies assisting on scene were Indiana Conservation Officers, Franklin County Fire Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Laurel Police and Fire, Metamora Police and Fire and Franklin County EMS.
Indiana Conservation Officers and the Franklin County coroner’s office are continuing their investigation.