North Raleigh Today

Hurricane Helene, which struck the Big Bend area of Florida on September 26 before moving northward, caused widespread destruction in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. As the storm subsided, federal and state emergency management teams began coordinating rescue and recovery efforts.

The Raleigh Police Department responded to the crisis with a significant deployment to assist affected areas. Raleigh Police Chief Estella Patterson emphasized their commitment to service during times of disaster: “Our brothers and sisters facing devastation in the western part of the state are under extreme anxiety and stress. As always, I look to each of you to remain a consummate professional and cling to our values of service, courage, fairness, integrity, and compassion.”

Over 150 employees from the department volunteered for this effort. They prepared equipment and supplies for teams capable of managing complex incidents over extended periods. A contingent was deployed to Black Mountain to support law enforcement and recovery efforts. The first team arrived on October 11.

Major Brian Harrison led the initial group: “As the lead of the first group, I did my best to harness the energy of the RPD officers that just wanted to help in any way possible.” Officers conducted security checks and check-on-welfare calls in challenging conditions due to treacherous terrain and washed-out roads.

In addition to law enforcement duties, officers assisted at food and water distribution centers alongside the North Carolina National Guard. They also worked with volunteers and local agencies on various community support initiatives.

Detective Beth Machado shared a poignant moment involving victims found within vehicles swept away by floodwaters: “They went to the property to try and start cleaning it up. They found seven bodies inside vehicles on their property and then stopped out of fear of finding more.”

Captain Peter Manukas reflected on his experience with relief efforts: “The experience was exemplified by humanity,” he said. Sergeant Dave McDonald echoed these sentiments: “I will carry this experience with me... People will go that extra distance to help their communities.”

Raleigh Police Department's involvement provided much-needed assistance while highlighting community resilience in western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene's impact.