Tornado Launches College Student

On May 16, 2025, a powerful EF-3 tornado struck St. Louis, dramatically impacting the life of 20-year-old Mya Grimes, a Jackson State University student. While driving home on Pershing Avenue, she found herself directly in the storm’s path. Despite worsening conditions, Mya continued her drive, urged by her father’s call to get home quickly. As the storm intensified, she called her mother in fear, telling her, “It’s taking me,” before the call abruptly ended.

Moments later, Mya’s car was picked up by the tornado, spun multiple times, and she was thrown from the vehicle, sliding roughly 40 yards down the road. Though seriously shaken, she survived with only minor injuries and was able to flag down an ambulance. She later described the event as a moment of divine protection in an Instagram post, saying she wasn’t lucky but “blessed.” Reflecting on the incident, she emphasized the importance of faith and encouraged others to turn to God. Her survival stands as a powerful story of resilience and spiritual reflection in the face of a life-threatening natural disaster.