Audrain County man killed in strong storms Tuesday

MARTINSBURG, Mo. (KMIZ)

Storms that swept through Mid-Missouri on Tuesday claimed a life in Audrain County.

Mike Aherns was killed when a wooden electric pole fell on him at his family-owned farm, his brother told ABC 17 News on Wednesday.

Ashley Aherns, Mike's brother, said their family has been farming in the area since the 1940s. Mike Ahrens was a dedicated crop farmer, cultivating corn, soybeans and wheat throughout his life.

The Martinsburg Area Fire Protection District wrote in a Facebook post that Mike Aherns frequently collaborated with local first responders, using his farm as a training ground for operating fire trucks and other emergency equipment.

Ashley Aherns said he thinks his brother was driving the family's Oliver 77 tractor, which has been with them since 1952, when the pole fell and killed him.

Mayor Pat Arens has confirmed the tragic incident. The Audrain County Sheriff's Office also confirmed the death later on its social media.

"The scene investigation and observed evidence led deputies to believe that Mr. Ahrens was moving a tractor into a shed during the storm that was moving thru the area, and a nearby utility pole on the property broke, striking Mr. Ahrens, causing fatal trauma," the post reads.

Police in nearby Mexico, Missouri, reported power lines and tree limbs down after storms moved through around 6 p.m. Thunderstorm wind damage was also reported in Centralia and Vandalia.

Power was also knocked off to thousands of people around Mid-Missouri.