Tragic Loss: Man Mourns Wife After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation
Avery County, North Carolina—A local man is grappling with profound grief following the loss of his wife during the catastrophic events of Hurricane Helene. Jamie Guinn’s life was irrevocably altered on September 27 when mudslides struck their home, resulting in the tragic death of his wife, Melissa, as they sought refuge with their eight-year-old son.
In a heartfelt interview with WRAL, Guinn recounted the harrowing moments that unfolded as the storm unleashed its fury. Two mudslides hit the back of their residence, ultimately knocking the home off a cliff and into a river. While Guinn managed to free himself from the debris, he was haunted by the sound of Melissa’s screams, warning him of the impending danger.
Wife & mother of four children killed in Helene flooding, husband still hospitalized https://t.co/KOBKAe8Pog
— WRAL NEWS in NC (@WRAL) October 6, 2024
“Within an hour, my entire life changed for the rest of my life,” said Guinn, who is also a father of four. He expressed his heartbreak and urged others to cherish their loved ones, as life can change in an instant.
In the critical moments before the second mudslide, Guinn took their son to safety. It was then that he realized Melissa’s screams had ceased. “When I got right behind my little boy, I started screaming for my wife because I couldn’t hear her anymore. Then, he turned and looked at me and said, ‘Daddy, I think Mommy’s gone,’” Guinn recalled, his voice filled with sorrow.
The loss of Melissa has left an indelible mark on the family, as they navigate their grief in the aftermath of such a devastating event. Community members have rallied around the Guinn family, offering support and condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Below is a link to the family’s GoFundMe:
Here is a link to donate to #Helene victim Melissa Guinn's family she has left behind. She died in a mud slide/flood in #Helene https://t.co/bbyTwgR1X4
— Dr. Laura Pettler (@DrLauraPettler) October 2, 2024