University Student Survives Being Thrown from Car During EF-3 Tornado

Mya Grimes, a 20-year-old Jackson State University student, narrowly survived an EF-3 tornado that struck St. Louis on May 16, 2025. While driving home on Pershing Avenue, Mya was speaking to her mother when her car was caught in the storm’s path.

“The car started spinning in circles. I held on for dear life, praying and screaming ‘Jesus,’” she recalled. The windshield shattered, and she was flung 40 yards down the road near Union and Washington.

Before the storm hit, her father had warned her to get home quickly. As the weather worsened, she called her mother, who described the horrifying call: “She said, ‘It’s taking me,’ and then the phone disconnected.”

Despite her injuries, Mya crawled to a light pole and flagged down an ambulance. She was released from the hospital with minor burns and cuts.

The next day, Mya shared her experience on Instagram, writing:

“I walked out of a tornado today… my car was spun, I was thrown out, slid 40 yards, and crawled to a light pole. I’m not lucky, I’m BLESSED. GOD KEPT ME.”

She also urged others to seek faith:

“Please, get right with God. You’re not too young, too far, too imperfect, or too late.”

What began as a routine drive turned into a moment of sheer survival and spiritual awakening for Mya, who now views her escape as a divine miracle.