Mudslide In Helene Destroys Homes And Claims Lives Of 11 Family Members
In North Carolina, Jesse Craig is grieving the loss of 11 family members who perished in a mudslide triggered by the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene.
Among the deceased are Jesse’s parents, as well as other relatives, from a small community known as Craigtown, where his family has lived for 80 years.
Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc after impacting Florida, moving north and causing widespread destruction in its wake. This powerful storm has been linked to approximately 230 fatalities across several states, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, making it one of the deadliest hurricanes on the mainland since Katrina in 2005.
Since September 27, Helene has caused significant flooding in western North Carolina, leading to destructive mudslides that have uprooted homes and displaced residents.
Rescue teams and K9 units are currently searching through the devastation left by Helene.
The Craig family, residing about 12 miles southeast of Asheville, lost 11 members to the mudslide, which obliterated their homes in Craigtown.
According to reports, the 11 victims lived in close proximity to one another, and the mudslide destroyed their residences as it cascaded down the mountain.
Jesse Craig shared with ABC that he lost his parents, along with various aunts, uncles, and cousins, describing his family as integral to the community in a GoFundMe campaign set up for the survivors.
“This place is unrecognizable now; it’s where I grew up,” Jesse reflected on the land his grandfather purchased 80 years ago. The area, once a foundation for generations of his family, has been irrevocably changed by the storm. “We’ll never fully comprehend this loss. It’s our community and town; I can’t imagine it will ever be the same.”
Jesse’s wife, MeKenzie, expressed her disbelief at the situation, stating, “I don’t think it will ever feel the same… It’s been a life-altering experience. I haven’t fully processed it; every day feels like an eternity.”
The only remnant of their home now is an American flag Jesse raised on a fallen tree branch.
MeKenzie praised Jesse for his strength during this immense loss, stating, “[Jesse] raised this flag high in the place where he grew up, one of the few homes I’ve known for the last six years.”
In another message, she expressed her admiration for his bravery during this tragic time.
Despite their losses, the remaining members of the Craig family are determined to preserve their legacy and hope to rebuild on their land.
“We don’t want this tragedy to be forgotten,” MeKenzie emphasized. “This isn’t just a short-term recovery; it’s going to take years to restore our community to what it once was.”
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