Falcon Point Residents Stunned By Tornado Damage

INDIANAPOLIS -- Residents of Falcon Point apartments were stunned to see how much debris was left behind by a tornado that ripped through the east-side complex, damaging all of its 218 units.

Their lives turned upside down, residents attempted to return to what was left of their homes on Saturday, 6News' Stacia Matthews reported.

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Images: Storm Damage

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Residents were fortunate to have escaped with minor bumps and bruises, but many had harrowing stories to tell.

"All of a sudden, our roof just landed on us and he pushed me out of the way and the roof came down," said Veenice Blackburn. "We came outside … but we lost everything."

"It looks really horrible," said resident Kimberly Marie Lander. "I can't imagine. It's worse with me seeing that. I thought it would never happen to my apartment."

Debris littered all 35 buildings in the complex. The tornado's 125 mph winds blew away roofs, sheared off walls and destroyed many apartment units.

Many residents tried to return to what is left of their homes to retrieve their belongings, only to be turned away by police.

"They said because the power lines are down," said Sheila Hopkins-Hart. "My car is back there, but I'm glad I got my dog out."

Authorities said about 95 percent of the 218 units in the complex were occupied. Dozens of families are now forced to find temporary housing.

"When your place is destroyed, it's time to do the things you need to do," said resident Harry Pruitt. "Thank God I'm still alive."

Resident Lou Henry Anderson has dealt with the wrath of Mother Nature before.

"It's just hurting that I'm from New Orleans and come here to this," Anderson said. "We're Katrina evacuees, and now we've come here and a tornado hit our home. We're going to try to find out where we can find somewhere to stay. We need a place to stay."

The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents. Anyone who needs help because of storm-related damage can call 317-684-1441.