2 dead from severe weather in Jefferson County identified

DIX, Ill. (WAND) — Two people who were killed after severe weather hit parts of central and southern Illinois Sunday have been identified.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office said three homes were destroyed after a tornado reportedly touched down in the northeastern part of Jefferson County. Many others were damaged.

News partner KFVS confirmed with Sheriff Jeff Bullard that two people died in the destroyed homes.

The sheriff's office identified the victims as 83-year-old Delores B. Shelton of 19267 N. Ranch Lane in Mt. Vernon and 62-year-old Sarita L. Kimble of 14650 E. July Rd in Mt. Vernon.

Five people were also taken to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

Jefferson County is just south of the WAND News viewing area, with Dix located about an hour south of Effingham down I-57.