In a devastating turn of events, four family members tragically lost their lives during Hurricane Helene on Friday, September 27, 2024, as they attempted to flee the approaching storm. The disaster claimed the lives of Alison Wisely, her two sons, Felix and Lucas, and her fiancé, Knox Petrucci, who were from Green Mountain, North Carolina.
A Family’s Desperate Escape
As floodwaters rose rapidly, the family’s car became submerged. They were forced to abandon the vehicle and attempted to return to their home. Unfortunately, a powerful wave swept them into the nearby Toe River. A witness who tried to warn the family of the dangers later attempted to help but was unable to save them. Their identities were confirmed through family photos, and the vehicle was later found near the river’s edge, while a lone dog was found in their house.
Recovery Efforts
Alison’s body was recovered on October 4, 2024, in Tennessee, with Felix and Lucas discovered the following day. After a tireless search, Knox’s body was recovered on October 7, allowing the family to be reunited and laid to rest together.
Remembering Alison, Knox, Felix, and Lucas
Alison was known for her wisdom and deep love for her children. As a mother, she nurtured Felix and Lucas, inspiring them to embrace their creativity and imagination. Professionally, she served as the Sanctuary Operations Manager at Carolina Memorial Sanctuary, where she compassionately guided others through their grief.
Knox was a talented beekeeper, artist, and musician. He was known for his passion for the environment and his commitment to protecting bees. Knox lived authentically and showered his loved ones with boundless care and love.
Felix, a curious and precocious 9-year-old, was captivated by nature and the mysteries of the world, particularly fascinated by supernatural folklore. Along with his mother, he hosted a podcast exploring these themes. Lucas, just 7 years old, was a bright and imaginative child, known for his humor and warmth. He loved wearing superhero costumes and spreading joy to everyone he encountered.
The family was planning to celebrate Alison and Knox’s wedding on November 9, but their lives were tragically cut short. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support their memorial services, and the Carolina Memorial Sanctuary is covering the funeral costs. Donations will further support the family and honor their memory.
Heartfelt Tributes
Knox’s sister, Briana, shared a heartbreaking tribute to her brother, Alison, Felix, and Lucas in an emotional post. She remembered Alison as a wise and loving partner to Knox and reflected on their deep conversations about life and the afterlife. She also spoke fondly of Felix and Lucas, calling them the “brightest, magical, funniest little souls.” Briana expressed the immense pain of losing her brother and the boys, vowing to carry on Knox’s values of love, kindness, and authenticity.
Briana extended her condolences to Alison’s former partner, Lance Wisely, and his family. Lance also shared a touching tribute to his children, reflecting on the joy, creativity, and love they brought into his life. He expressed his deep gratitude for Knox, who embraced his sons as his own, and for Alison, a brilliant and devoted mother. Lance acknowledged the overwhelming grief shared by all who knew the family, and the support they have received from the community.
Another Family Devastated by Hurricane Helene
In addition to the loss of the Wisely-Petrucci family, another heartbreaking tragedy occurred when the Taylor family from Georgia lost two of their children to the same storm. Crystal Taylor, her husband Herbert, and their three children were at home when a massive oak tree crashed into their house, claiming the lives of their 4-year-old son Derrick and 7-year-old daughter Harmony. Despite rescue efforts, the children were trapped under the fallen tree, leaving the family in unimaginable grief.
Community Support
Both families have been receiving an outpouring of love and support from their communities. Donations through GoFundMe and other platforms are helping cover funeral costs and provide financial relief for the families as they cope with their profound losses. The generosity and kindness shown by the public have brought some comfort to the grieving families during this incredibly difficult time.
As the families of Alison, Knox, Felix, Lucas, Derrick, and Harmony mourn, their communities continue to rally around them, offering prayers, donations, and emotional support to help them navigate through their loss.