The Guinn family is experiencing an unimaginable tragedy after Hurricane Helene tore their lives apart. On September 27, while seeking shelter in their home in Minneapolis, North Carolina, the storm caused a devastating mudslide that led to the collapse of their house. In a horrifying moment, Melissa Guinn, a devoted mother of four, was swept away by the rushing waters right before the eyes of her husband, Jamie, and their 8-year-old son, River.
As the house crumbled around them, Jamie managed to save River by throwing him to safety on the riverbank. But when they turned back, Melissa had disappeared. Her last words, “Babe, watch out!” echoed in the chaos before she vanished, possibly pulled away by another mudslide into the river. Despite hearing her scream moments later, Jamie could not find her.
For hours, Jamie and River battled through debris, rushing water, and mud to find help, with Jamie suffering a fractured spine and head injury. Tragically, Melissa’s body was found on October 7, ten days after the storm, confirming the family’s worst fears.
Melissa, who was just weeks away from their 10th wedding anniversary, leaves behind not only her devastated husband, Jamie, but their four sons: Brandon, Sebastian, Ethan, and River. She was remembered as a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, known for her strength, generosity, and kindness.
Jamie’s heartbroken words capture the depth of their loss: “She was my absolute best friend. I really don’t know how I’m going to make it without her.” As the Guinn family grieves, they need the support and prayers of the community to help them through this harrowing time.
