An Oklahoma family devastated by a tornado in April 2023 is set to share their harrowing story of battling their insurance company in Washington, D.C. The couple, Mallory and Jacob Woodard, saw their home in Cole completely destroyed and have faced challenges since their claim with Encompass Insurance, a subsidiary of Allstate, was denied.
The Woodards argue that despite paying premiums for years, their claim was not honored, with alleged recordings suggesting that adjusters recognized their home as a total loss. “You have that backup plan that you pay for every month for them to come through,” Mallory explained, emphasizing the disappointment felt by many who trust in their insurance providers during difficult times. Currently, they find themselves living in a metal building on their property with their two young children, all while still paying a mortgage for a home that no longer exists.
Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Disaster Management, has taken an interest in the case, particularly given concerns over alleged fraudulent practices related to insurance claims following natural disasters. During a hearing in May 2025, he confronted Allstate’s Chief Claims Officer, Mike Fiato, over claims that adjusters had been pressured to manipulate damage estimates to lower payouts, which Hawley characterized as “institutionalized fraud.”
After the Woodards’ story was highlighted on News 9, their attorney, Jeff Marr, received a call from Hawley’s office, inviting them to share their experiences. “It’s amazing,” said Marr, noting the couple’s story mirrors testimonies from whistleblowers concerning insurance practices. The Woodards are determined to leverage their experience to not only advocate for themselves but also for others facing similar situations.
Leaving for Washington, D.C. on Friday, Jacob Woodard remarked on their commitment to raise awareness, stating, “I’m willing to do whatever I can to help other people, too.” Their next court date with Encompass Insurance is scheduled for the following Tuesday in Cleveland County, with hopes that their advocacy will lead to necessary changes in insurance practices for others in the future.