A devastating tragedy has struck a family in Minneapolis, North Carolina, leaving them in desperate need of our thoughts and prayers.

Melissa Guinn, a devoted mother of four, was tragically swept away by the powerful floodwaters of Hurricane Helene, right in front of her husband, Jamie, and their 8-year-old son, River.

The destructive impact of recent storms across the United States has claimed many lives and left homes in ruins. For the Guinn family, the disaster unfolded on September 27 when they sought refuge inside their home as Hurricane Helene raged on. However, the storm’s force triggered massive mudslides that caused their house, which overlooked a river, to collapse down a hillside.

Jamie Guinn recounted the terrifying moment: “It sounded like a cannon going off. The house was collapsing around us. I remember screaming for my son, and I could hear him screaming back. We somehow dug through the wreckage, and I found him.” But Melissa was nowhere to be found. Her final words, “Babe, watch out!” still echoed in Jamie’s mind.

In a desperate bid to save their son, Jamie threw River to safety onto a nearby riverbank. But when he turned back, Melissa had disappeared. “He looked at me and said, ‘Dad, I think Mommy’s gone,'” Jamie recalled.

Jamie believes Melissa was swept away by another mudslide that dragged her into the river. Despite their injuries—Jamie sustained a fractured spine and a head laceration—he and River fought through debris and rushing water for hours before they could seek help.

Ten days later, on October 7, authorities recovered Melissa’s body, confirming the heartbreaking loss. She and Jamie were just weeks away from celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary.

Melissa leaves behind four sons—Brandon, Sebastian, Ethan, and River. Jamie, reflecting on his loss, shared, “She was my best friend. I don’t know how I’ll go on without her. We spent every day together.”

A GoFundMe fundraiser created by Jamie’s coworker described Melissa as a loving wife, dedicated mother, and a generous, passionate soul who touched the lives of many.

This tragic story has left the community grieving. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Guinn family as they face this unimaginable loss. May they find comfort and peace during this incredibly difficult time. VIDEO BELOW: