Leslie Leatherman dies in fatal Laurel County storm response incident

Leslie Leatherman dies in fatal Laurel County storm response incident

Fatal Laurel County storm response death of Leslie Leatherman – Obituary

Major Leslie Leatherman of the Laurel County Fire Department lost his life in the line of duty during severe storms that swept through southeast Kentucky late Friday night. The tornado outbreak triggered emergency responses across multiple counties, including Laurel County, where the National Weather Service confirmed EF-3 level destruction.

According to fire department officials, Leatherman was dispatched at approximately 11:45 p.m. to respond to a fire alarm on Sunshine Hills Road. Shortly thereafter, emergency services received reports of an individual trapped at a location on Hart Church Road, followed by news of a structure collapse on Sunshine Hills Road.

As the situation escalated, a lieutenant called in to Laurel County 911 confirming a tornado had touched down and requested full emergency deployment. Tragically, during these rapid developments and rescue efforts, Major Leatherman lost his life.

He is remembered for his bravery and service during a chaotic and dangerous night when the community faced immense destruction and peril.