Hurricane Helene kills mom, her fiancé, and two young sons

Natural disasters like hurricanes leave a trail of destruction and heartbreak in their wake, and Hurricane Helene is no exception. Sadly, among its victims is a family of four from North Carolina, who tragically lost their lives while trying to flee their home to escape the storm’s deadly force.

Alison Wisely, her fiancé Knox Petrucci, and her two young sons, Felix and Lucas, became victims of the hurricane as their car was swept away by the rising floodwaters.

This heartbreaking event serves as a sobering reminder of the power of nature and how even the most well-prepared can fall victim to its wrath.

The family had planned to evacuate their Green Mountain home on Friday afternoon as Hurricane Helene closed in. Unfortunately, as they tried to drive through floodwaters, their car began to float, forcing them to abandon their vehicle and attempt to return to safety. Sadly, they were swept away into the raging waters of the Toe River, where their lives were tragically cut short.

Despite the efforts of a witness who tried to warn them and even assist in a rescue, the family could not be saved. Alison’s body was found on October 4th, with Felix and Lucas discovered a day later. Knox’s body was recovered on October 7th.

Family members shared that Alison and Knox had taken steps to prepare for the hurricane, including buying sandbags and pallets to prevent flooding in their home. However, they believed that the mountains around their house would offer some protection. Unfortunately, the floodwaters rose by a staggering 22 feet, reaching just below the ceiling of their home and making it impossible to escape.

The loss of Alison, Knox, Felix, and Lucas has devastated their community. Knox’s sister, Briana, remembered her brother as someone who connected deeply with others and lived with authenticity and love. Alison, described as a wise and loving mother, was co-parenting her boys with their father, Lance Wisely.

Making this tragedy even more painful, Alison and Knox were set to marry on November 9th, just weeks after the storm claimed their lives.

A GoFundMe has been created to help honor the family and support those affected by this terrible disaster. The Carolina Memorial Sanctuary has also stepped in to cover funeral expenses.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, over 230 people have been confirmed dead across North Carolina and Tennessee, with recovery efforts still ongoing.

We invite you to share your thoughts and condolences for the family and others affected by this storm in the comments below. Let’s come together in remembrance of those who lost their lives and to support the communities left in mourning.