Victims Of Fatal Floodwaters In Oxford Identified: State Police

OXFORD, CT — State police have identified a pair of women who died Sunday after being swept away by torrential floodwaters on Route 67.

The victims, both of Oxford, were identified as Ethelyn Joiner, 63, and Audrey Rostkowski, 71. Next of kin of both women have been notified, state police said.

Fire Chief Scott Pellitier said the women died in two separate incidents. Each had been trapped in their vehicles, with one escaping and hanging onto a sign before the powerful current swept her away.

It was not clear which woman died in her vehicle, and which one was swept away.

More than 13 inches of rain fell during a short period of time Sunday, which triggered mud slides and washed numerous roads away.

Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said 27 state roads are currently closed, plus a number of local roadways. He said several hundred crews are inspecting the infrastructural damage.

First Selectman George Temple declared a state of emergency in Oxford around 6 p.m. Sunday. In a briefing Monday afternoon at town hall, Governor Ned Lamont and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal both indicated preparations for a federal emergency declaration are underway.

"The sudden and severe flooding has caused significant damage to infrastructure in the western portion of the state, resulting in evacuations, rescues, and more than two dozen road closures that we anticipate will need to be closed for an extended period," Lamont said. "This emergency declaration may help expedite some of the resources needed for us to respond to this situation, and in particular can help prioritize potential federal resources such as equipment and work crews that can assist state and local crews with repairing infrastructure damage. I strongly encourage anyone in the western area of the state to stay alert for updates before traveling and do not attempt to drive through any flooded roads."

Blumenthal said, "The devastation is heartbreaking. Who would have thought Little River would become a gushing torrent of destruction."

State Senator Eric Berthel added, "We're hurting, our hearts are breaking. We got sucker punched and then taken out at the knees."

Oxford resident Rich Zepko told Patch, "I've lived here 43 years and this is by far the worst water I've ever seen."

Among the many property casualties was the grounds of the Oxford Police Department. Non-emergency calls in Oxford should be directed to Connecticut State Police Troop A in Southbury at 203-267-2200. As always, those calling to report emergencies should dial 9-1-1.

Access roads to Jackson Cove and Kettletown State Park are closed. Eucalitto said Kettletown has been shut down for the season.