County Sheriff: Residences 'Completely Lost' in Rochelle

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle described the damage after a “significant tornado” tore through Rochelle on Thursday, April 9. The tornado crossed Interstate 39 several miles north of Rochelle shortly after 7 pm. Ogle said, “We currently have several structures that have been damaged and several residences that have been completely lost.”

No fatalities were yet reported in Rochelle, according to VanVickle, but several “walking wounded” were being treated in hospital. Emergency services secured a perimeter around the affected area and asked residents to stay away. VanVickle said another brief would be issued in the morning. Credit: Facebook/City of Rochelle, Illinois – City Hall