“compiled by Olivia Mackenzie”
LONDON, Ky. — As a deadly tornado tore through the Appalachian foothills late Friday night, veteran firefighter Leslie “Les” Leatherman rushed to protect those in harm’s way — just as he had done for nearly four decades. This time, the life he saved was that of his wife.
Leatherman, 57, was among the 19 people killed when the violent storm struck southeastern Kentucky. A major in the Laurel County Fire Department and a beloved figure in the state’s emergency services, Leatherman died shielding his wife, Michelle, from flying debris. She survived the ordeal and remains in critical condition at the University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital in Lexington.
“They were found in a field, about 100 yards from where their home had stood,” said Deputy Chief Terry Wattenbarger, a longtime friend and colleague. “He was lying over her. He did what he always did — tried to protect someone.”
The tornado, which devastated parts of Pulaski and Laurel counties, cut a 55-mile path of destruction with peak winds reaching 170 mph. The National Weather Service confirmed the storm grew to nearly a mile wide at its strongest point.
In the immediate aftermath, first responders located the Leathermans but couldn’t identify them in the darkness. It was only later, when Leatherman failed to respond to radio calls, that officials realized one of their own had fallen.
A Life of Service
Leatherman’s death has reverberated across Kentucky’s tight-knit emergency services community. Known for his steady presence and unwavering dedication, he began his public service career as an EMT and dispatcher before moving on to serve with the Kentucky State Police and, most recently, as assistant director of the 911 center in neighboring Whitley County.
“He was a mentor, a leader, and a genuinely good man,” said Whitley County Judge-Executive Pat White Jr. “Young people in emergency services looked up to him. His loss is immeasurable.”
A respected fire rescue instructor and loyal friend, Leatherman also played a vital role in training the next generation of responders. “He poured everything into making others better,” said Brandon Wagers of the London Fire Department.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear honored Leatherman’s sacrifice in a public statement, saying, “He died doing what first responders do every day — risking his life for the safety of others. We must never forget that.”
“We’re Not OK — But We’re Surviving”
For those who served beside him, the loss is deeply personal.
“Les was the kind of man who never hesitated,” said Wattenbarger. “He had a huge heart. He loved his family and his community. He’s the reason so many of us do what we do.”
Leatherman’s nearly 39 years of fire service leave behind a legacy that will be felt for generations. In the aftermath, his department is grappling with grief — and resolve.
“We’re surviving,” Wattenbarger said. “That’s all we can do right now. That’s what Les would want. We’ll carry his memory forward — together.”
