Plaza Towers Apartments: A Landmark in Oklahoma City History
The Plaza Towers Apartments, located in Moore, Oklahoma, hold a tragic place in the history of the state. While no longer standing, their story is one of resilience, community, and the devastating power of nature.
A Brief History
Built in 1970, the Plaza Towers Apartments were a community hub, home to families and young professionals alike. The complex comprised three mid-rise buildings with over 100 apartments. Its location was ideal, offering residents easy access to schools, shopping, and other amenities.
The Tragedy of May 20, 2013
On May 20, 2013, an EF5 tornado ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Plaza Towers Apartments were directly in the path of the storm.
The tornado, with wind speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour, devastated the complex. Seven children, all elementary school students, lost their lives while sheltering in the school's basement. The tragic event shocked the nation and highlighted the vulnerability of communities in the face of extreme weather events.
Rebuilding and Resilience
In the aftermath of the tornado, the Plaza Towers Apartments were demolished. The site remained vacant for several years, a stark reminder of the storm's destructive force.
However, the community of Moore, known for its resilience, refused to be defined by the tragedy. In its place, a new school, the Plaza Towers Elementary School, was constructed. The new building incorporates the spirit of the old, serving as a symbol of hope and renewal.
The Lasting Legacy
The Plaza Towers Apartments are a stark reminder of the dangers of natural disasters, but also a testament to the strength and unity of the human spirit.
The tragedy prompted discussions about school safety and preparedness. The story of the children who lost their lives continues to inspire communities to improve their disaster response plans and to support each other in the face of adversity.
While the Plaza Towers Apartments are gone, their legacy lives on in the hearts of the community and in the spirit of rebuilding and resilience.
