A peaceful family who had built their dream life by the river in the North Carolina mountains was tragically swept away by a massive wave during Hurricane Helene.

The family of four—Alison Wisely, her fiancé Knox Petrucci, and her two sons, Felix, 9, and Lucas, 7—attempted to flee their home as the hurricane approached. However, their vehicle began to float in the floodwaters, making it difficult to drive. They abandoned their evacuation attempt and decided to return home, but on their way back, a powerful wave carried them into the Toe River.

Tragically, all four bodies have since been recovered. According to close family members, Alison and Knox had made preparations when Hurricane Helene warnings were issued. They had bought sandbags and pallets, anticipating minor basement flooding, believing the mountains would shield them from the storm’s worst effects, especially since the area had never experienced extreme weather. Unfortunately, they were mistaken, as the Toe River surged by 22 feet, nearly reaching the ceiling of their one-story home.

A GoFundMe page set up by Knox’s sister, Briana Petrucci Yarbrough, revealed that Knox and Alison were planning to marry on November 9, 2024. In her tribute, Briana wrote about how special the family was and the beautiful life they had built.

Knox, a beekeeper, musician, songwriter, and aspiring blacksmith, was described as a passionate advocate for the Earth and bees. Alison, known for her brilliance and love, was an adoring mother who shared co-parenting duties with the boys’ devoted father, Lance Wisely. Felix and Lucas were creative, fun-loving boys who enjoyed playing Minecraft and making art.

Lance Wisely shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, praising Alison as a wonderful mother and expressing his admiration for Knox, who loved his children as if they were his own. He remembered the boys for their adventurous spirits, artistic talents, and affectionate nature.

Recent reports indicate that over 230 people have lost their lives following Hurricane Helene, with recovery efforts continuing in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Additionally, Hurricane Milton, which hit Florida on October 9, claimed at least 16 lives.

Our deepest condolences go out to all those affected by these devastating hurricanes.