Katlyn Wilkins, in tree, and Andrea Wilkins Morelli work on securing an American flag on May 29, as they deal with the destruction caused by a massive tornado that passed through Joplin, Mo., May 22, killing at least 139 people. (Joe Raedle / Getty Images)
Missouri officials say the death toll from the massive May 22 Joplin tornado has risen to 138 people.
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The state Department of Public Safety announced the increase from 134 to 138 on Thursday after confirming that four more people died in hospitals of injuries suffered in deadliest single U.S. tornado since 1950.
More than 8,000 homes and apartments, and more than 500 commercial properties, were damaged or destroyed when the twister ripped through more than six miles of the southwest Missouri town.
Officials say everyone reported missing after the tornado hit has either been located or confirmed to have died. Some remain hospitalized.
SOURCE: The Associated Press
