Stillwater residents begin cleanup after wildfires

Communities across Oklahoma are facing widespread destruction after a night of wildfires fueled by violent winds. Among the hardest-hit areas are neighborhoods west of Stillwater, where residents woke up Saturday morning to assess the damage.

More than 50 homes were lost in the fires, according to Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce.

"It's devastating," Joyce said. "I know several of the folks whose homes burned, and, you know, they're friends of mine."

Related: Community remains strong as residents face damage in Stillwater

Despite the destruction, the Stillwater community is coming together to help those in need.

"Stillwater has dealt with tragedy before, and we will deal with it as a community," Joyce added.

For some, the loss is total. Franklin Spitz, 91, lost his home but remains resilient.

"It's all just material, you know," Spitz said. "When you've lived this long, you've see a lot, you know?"

Surrounded by his family, Spitz is focusing on what truly matters.

"You got to take what the good Lord gives you," he said.

Governor Kevin Stitt visited the area alongside local officials, vowing to provide resources for recovery.

"We'll get all the resources we need to help these folks rebuild," Stitt said.

Related: FEMA: Fire Management Assistance Grants secured for 13 counties

As the cleanup begins, the community remains hopeful and committed to rebuilding.

"Everybody will rally together, help everybody out. That's just what this town's all about," one resident said.

Stillwater stands strong in the face of adversity, proving that the slogan, 'Stillwater Strong,' rings true.