A powerful tornado that swept through rural areas of Newton County, Indiana Tuesday evening has claimed the lives of an elderly couple after their home was destroyed in the storm’s path. The severe weather struck shortly after 7:12 p.m. CST on March 10, 2026, bringing destructive winds and widespread damage to parts of the region.
According to local officials, the tornado first touched down near the rural community of Lake Village, Indiana in the northwestern part of the county. The storm tore through the area, damaging and destroying homes, businesses, and other structures as it moved across the landscape. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to assess the damage and search for anyone who may have been trapped or injured.
Authorities later confirmed that two residents were killed when their home was directly struck by the tornado. The victims have been tentatively identified as Edward L. Kozlowski, 89, and his wife, Arlene Kozlowski, 84. Officials say the couple’s home sustained catastrophic damage when the tornado passed through the area.
Investigators reported that the preliminary cause of death for both victims has been ruled as multiple blunt force trauma, consistent with injuries caused by the violent storm. The sudden loss of the couple has left neighbors and members of the community mourning as they begin the long process of recovering from the disaster.
An autopsy for both Edward and Arlene Kozlowski has been scheduled for Friday morning at the Tippecanoe County Coroner’s Office in Lafayette, Indiana. Officials say the examination will help confirm the exact cause and manner of death as part of the ongoing investigation into the deadly weather event.
Emergency crews and local authorities continue working across Newton County to assess damage and assist residents affected by the tornado. Community members have already begun offering support to one another as recovery efforts move forward, while many reflect on the tragic loss of two longtime residents whose lives were taken by the powerful storm.
