A North Carolina family tragically lost their lives while trying to escape Hurricane Helene. The hurricane struck parts of the U.S. on September 26 and wreaked havoc across southeastern states until September 29, leaving behind widespread destruction. Several towns were nearly wiped out, with Chimney Rock in North Carolina and Steinhatchee on Florida’s Gulf Coast among the hardest hit areas.
The death toll from the hurricane has risen to approximately 130, with many still missing. Among those confirmed dead are Alison Wisely, her sons Felix, nine, and Lucas, seven, along with her fiancé Knox Petrucci. The family, who lived in North Carolina’s Green Mountains, attempted to flee on September 27. While driving through floodwaters, their car began to float. They tried to return home on foot but were tragically swept into the Toe River, according to WRAL.
Alison, Felix, and Lucas were found first, while Knox’s body was not recovered until October 7. A GoFundMe page has been created in their memory ahead of their November 9 memorial service—a date originally meant to be Alison and Knox’s wedding day. The fundraiser, organized by Briana Yarbrough and Sarah Sheahan, has raised over $65,000 toward a $70,000 goal, with the primary beneficiary being Felix and Lucas’s father, Lance Wisely.
The GoFundMe page lovingly describes Alison as “brilliant and wise,” and Knox as living “with authenticity and boundless love.” Nine-year-old Felix is remembered for his curiosity and fascination with the world, weather, and the supernatural, which he explored with his mother through their podcast, Beyond Legends. Lucas is celebrated for his bright and imaginative spirit, known for his love of the outdoors, humor, and his affection for superheroes and cows.