2 NC deputies killed by flooding in Helene, Sheriff's Association says – WSOC TV

NORTH CAROLINA – The North Carolina Sheriffs' Association says two officers in western North Carolina have been killed by the significant flooding and dangerous conditions caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene.

Deputies came from the Macon County Sheriff's Office and the Madison County Sheriff's Office.

In a Facebook post, the Macon County Sheriff's Office confirmed the news. They said a 911 call was made at 11:30 a.m. Friday. Witnesses said they saw someone in a truck before it went underwater.

The sheriff's office learned that Jim Lau, one of the courthouse security officers, had not returned to work from lunch and his truck matched the description of the truck seen in the river.

Emergency crews found Lau's body in the river early Saturday.

“Jim was well liked and respected in our department. He was known as a hard-working and reliable worker and stepped in wherever help was needed. His absence will be keenly felt throughout our agency,” the sheriff’s office said. “We ask for prayers for this family and their loved ones, and we ask for prayers for our department. Continue to pray for Western North Carolina as a whole; The tragedy surrounding our mountain communities is unimaginable.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

(SEE: 'There's not a dry house down here': Residents react to flood damage in Asheville)

©2024 Cox Media Group