An idyllic family living near a peaceful river in the North Carolina mountains faced a heartbreaking fate during Hurricane Helene. Alison Wisely, her fiancé Knox Petrucci, and her two young sons, Felix (9) and Lucas (7), were swept away by a massive wave.
As the hurricane approached, the family tried to leave their home, but their vehicle began to float in the floodwaters. They made the difficult decision to abandon their evacuation efforts and return home. However, tragedy struck during their journey when a powerful wave swept them into the Toe River.
The bodies of Alison, Knox, Felix, and Lucas have been recovered since the tragic incident. Close family members revealed that Alison and Knox had made preparations after hearing about Hurricane Helene. They purchased pallets and sandbags, expecting only minor flooding in their home’s basement. They believed the mountains would provide enough protection, as the area had never experienced such extreme weather events before.
Unfortunately, their assumptions were wrong. The Toe River surged by an astounding 22 feet, with water levels inching dangerously close to the ceiling of Alison and Knox’s one-story house.
According to a GoFundMe set up by Knox’s sister, Briana Petrucci Yarbrough, the couple was supposed to get married on November 9, 2024. Briana described the family as precious and highlighted the idyllic life they had built together.
Knox was a beekeeper, musician, songwriter, artist, and aspiring blacksmith. Briana wrote, “Along with being an advocate for the Earth and bees, Knox was always there for friends who were like family. He inspired others with his authenticity, boundless love, and acceptance.”
Speaking of Alison, she said, “Brilliant and wise Alison was a loving mother to the boys she shared and co-parented with Lance Wisely, their devoted dad.”
Felix and Lucas were adorable young boys who enjoyed playing Minecraft, drawing, and painting.
Lance Wisely, the boys’ father, expressed his devastation on Facebook, announcing the tragic deaths of his children, Alison, and Knox. He described the boys as fiercely loved and appreciated the support from their extended family and friends. Lance wrote, “Their lives were filled with adventure, art, silliness, and snuggles. It has been my honor and privilege to be their father during their time with us.”
He praised Alison for being a wonderful mother and acknowledged Knox for loving the boys as if they were his own.
Recent reports state that the death toll from Hurricane Helene has now reached over 230, as recovery efforts continue in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Hurricane Milton, which struck Florida on October 9, claimed at least 16 lives.
Our hearts go out to everyone affected by these devastating hurricanes. Let’s come together and share this article with our family and friends on Facebook to raise awareness and support those in need.
Source: Bored Daddy
