News Summary
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Buncombe County is uniting to search for missing individuals, including Amanda Smith and Matt Darrohn. With 42 lives claimed, the community continues to support families impacted by the disaster as search efforts persist amidst the recovery challenges.
Buncombe County Community Rallies for Missing Individuals After Hurricane Helene
In the heart of Buncombe County, the community is coming together during a challenging time as the search continues for missing individuals following the destructive impact of Hurricane Helene. The storm has left a trail of devastation, and while some search efforts are winding down, a family member is still looking for a loved one.
The Ongoing Search for Amanda Smith
Among those missing is Amanda Smith, who has been unaccounted for since February 25. Amanda was last seen at her home, and her situation is concerning as she may struggle to recall her whereabouts. Reports indicate that her hair is now shorter than it appears in her missing photo, and she could be wearing a gray top and sweatpants. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office has reason to believe she might be around the bustling downtown Asheville area.
If anyone has any information regarding Amanda Smith’s whereabouts, they are encouraged to reach out to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 250-6670. Every little bit of information can help bring this family some peace.
Hurricane Helene’s Impact
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has been devastating for Buncombe County, claiming the lives of 42 individuals and leaving 10 still missing. As the initial chaos subsides, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the once high number of missing persons had dropped significantly from around 600 cases to less than ten active investigations.
In the wake of the hurricane, the dedicated efforts of hundreds of state and federal search and rescue personnel ensured that extensive searches combed through affected areas. However, some tragic news emerged that some of the victims might never be found, a poignant reality that adds to the heartache in the community.
Matt Darrohn: A Dogged Search for Hope
Among those still sought is Matt Darrohn, a homeless man last seen on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. His sister-in-law is holding onto hope and remains optimistic that he is safe. This sentiment echoes throughout the county as families anxiously wait for updates on their loved ones.
State of Affairs in North Carolina
Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc across several states, resulted in approximately 95 fatalities in North Carolina alone. The storm unloaded around 40 trillion gallons of rain, leading to unprecedented flooding, particularly in the mountainous regions. Communities are still grappling with the aftermath, with many roads remaining impassable and thousands of residents without power or reliable water supply.
As Asheville, a vibrant city with nearly 94,000 residents, continues to recover, it currently remains under a boil water advisory. This advisory serves as a reminder for the community to stay cautious and stay informed while navigating daily challenges.
The Road Ahead for Buncombe County
Buncombe County Emergency Services is working diligently to restore normal operations in the coming weeks. Though the recovery process is expected to take about five years, the community’s resilience and togetherness shine through even in the toughest moments. Local officials are committed to assisting individuals in locating friends or family members who may have been affected by the storm, addressing issues that arose due to power outages and disrupted communication across Western North Carolina.
As the community continues to heal, the ongoing search for missing individuals remains a priority. The strength and support exhibited by the residents of Buncombe County are sure to inspire hope for those still searching for their loved ones.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Buncombe County Missing Persons Count
- WWAY: Missing Persons Search Form
- New York Post: 10 Still Missing in Buncombe County
- Fox Carolina: Asheville Police Resume Normal Operations
- CBS17: 30 Now Dead in Buncombe County
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
