Local News
Leila Faraji and 7-Year-Old Daughter Rosa Faraji dead after being swept away by flood waters near Bixby
The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the recovery of the body of 7-year-old Rosa Faraji, who was swept away by floodwaters near Bixby, Oklahoma, over the weekend.
The discovery comes after an extensive multi-agency search that began following the incident.
Rosa’s body was found around 5:00 p.m. on Monday in the Arkansas River near Leonard, hours after the body of her mother, 46-year-old Leila Seyed Faraji, was recovered from the same area earlier that morning at approximately 9:00 a.m.
The family had been visiting the area when they reportedly took a wrong turn and attempted to cross a flooded bridge over a creek, according to the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).
“They thought they could make it through, but unfortunately, the vehicle was overtaken by the water,” said Casey Roebuck, Communications Director for the TCSO. The family of four included a father, mother, and two young daughters.
Authorities say the vehicle was swept away, resulting in the tragic loss of Leila and Rosa.
The father and the second daughter managed to escape and survive the incident.
Roebuck described the emotional toll on the surviving family members, saying, “They’re devastated, understandably. You have a family of four that, in a matter of seconds, became a family of two. They’re now mourning the loss of a mother and a child. Our hearts absolutely go out to them.”
The recovery effort involved a massive coordinated response from multiple agencies.
“We had search dogs from Oklahoma Task Force 1, aerial support from Tulsa Police Department helicopters, drones, ground crews combing the riverbanks on foot, side-by-side utility vehicles, and multiple boats in the water since the search began,” Roebuck said.
While the outcome was heartbreaking, officials hope the recovery brings some sense of closure to the grieving family.
“They don’t have to wonder now where their wife and daughter are,” Roebuck added. “They can honor their customs and begin the process of laying their loved ones to rest.”
The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to all responding agencies and asked the public to keep the Faraji family in their thoughts during this difficult time.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.