By Joanna Putman
Police1
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Flooding from Hurricane Helene has claimed the lives of two law enforcement officers in western North Carolina., WCNC reported.
Deputies from Macon and Madison counties were killed in floodwaters, according to the N.C. Sheriffs’ Association.
Macon County officials confirmed the death of Deputy Jim Lau, a courthouse security officer, whose truck was swept away by floodwaters on Sept. 27, according to the report. Lau’s body was recovered the next day in a nearby river.
“Jim was very liked and respected within our department,” said Macon County officials. “He was known to be a hard worker, dependable, and he jumped in wherever help was needed. His absence will truly be felt in our agency.”
The Madison County Sheriff’s Office has not yet commented on the death of their deputy, according to the report.
Hurricane Helene’s heavy rains caused widespread flooding and mudslides in western North Carolina, particularly in the Asheville region, cutting off communication and making roads impassable.
The death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to 90, with 30 fatalities reported in North Carolina and 25 in South Carolina as of Sunday night, according to the report.
Back The Blue NC, Inc., a nonprofit that assists North Carolina officers and their families affected by tragedy, has started a GoFundMe to help raise funds for those affected by the storm. If you would like to contribute, click here.
