Gina Heslop
The full damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton may not be known for some time, but the stories of destruction and loss continue to emerge.
The tragedies from these storms have shocked many, with reports of families torn apart by the powerful hurricanes. Earlier, we learned about twin babies, Khyzier and Khazmir Williams, who were the youngest victims of Hurricane Helene at just five weeks old. There was also the heartbreaking story of a South Carolina couple found holding each other in death.
In more devastating news, a family of four tragically lost their lives in North Carolina while trying to escape the storm. Alison Wisely, her fiancé Knox Petrucci, and her two children, Felix, 9, and Lucas, 7, were attempting to leave their home in Green Mountain as Hurricane Helene approached.
They started their journey around noon on Friday, hoping to escape the worst of the storm. However, as they drove through floodwaters, their car was lifted by the rising water. Realizing the danger, the family abandoned their vehicle and tried to return to their home on foot. Unfortunately, they were swept away into the fast-moving Toe River.
A witness to the scene reportedly tried to warn Alison and Knox not to approach the water and later attempted to help them during the rescue efforts. Sadly, Alison’s body was found on October 4, 2024, in Tennessee. The bodies of her children, Felix and Lucas, were recovered the next day. Knox’s body was found on October 7, bringing the tragic story to a close.
The family had prepared for the hurricane, expecting only minor flooding in their basement. They had bought sandbags and pallets, believing that the mountains around their home would protect them.
However, the flooding turned out to be far worse than anticipated. The Toe River rose by 22 feet, and the water reached just inches below the ceiling of their single-story house, leaving no chance for escape.
Knox’s sister, Briana Petrucci Yarbrough, spoke about her brother’s generous spirit and the love he had for his community. She said Knox always sought to create meaningful connections with others. She also remembered Alison as a wise and loving mother, dedicated to her children, whom she co-parented with their father, Lance Wisely.
The family was planning for a happier occasion, as Alison and Knox were due to be married on November 9. Their tragic deaths left friends and loved ones in deep mourning.
The Carolina Memorial Sanctuary has offered to cover the funeral costs for the family, and a GoFundMe campaign has been created to honor their memory and support those affected by the storm.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, over 230 people have been confirmed dead, with recovery efforts continuing in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Two weeks after the storm, bodies are still being found, as the region tries to recover from the devastation.
