Names of 5 killed in Alexander County flooding released

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More than 30 people were rescued from the rising floodwaters Thursday, which left some houses and cars completely underwater.

ALEXANDER COUNTY, N.C. — Alexander County officials have released the names of the 5 victims killed in last week’s devasting flooding. 

Along with the 5 killed, more than 30 people were rescued from the rising floodwaters Thursday, which left some houses and cars completely underwater. 

Officials said the victims were located at various locations on the campground property, approximately a quarter-mile from the campsites.

On Thursday, November 12, 2020, the victims recovered were identified as:

  • Crystal Dawn LeVan Reed, age 49 of Hiddenite, NC
  •  Tyrell Jordan “Ty” Reed, age 18 of Hiddenite, NC
  •  Tina Ann Allen, age 52 of Hiddenite, NC

On Friday, November 12, 2020, the victims recovered were identified as:

  •  Ronald James Wintemute, age 76 of Hiddenite, NC
  • Mason Lee Flowers, age 1 of Hiddenite, NC

The National Weather Service surveyed the damage in Hiddenite Friday. While the weather data is still being finalized, other recorded rainfall totals from Alexander County showed at least 7 inches of rain fell in some areas. 

Approximately 50 roadways across the county were compromised, with four bridge outages and 11 roads that are currently impassable, according to county officials.

The campground was overwhelmed when water from the South Yadkin River overtook the property.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency as many parts of the state continue to recover from widespread flooding. 

RELATED: Gov. Cooper declares state of emergency as flooding threat continues

WCNC Charlotte spoke to one woman said she knew one of the people who died. She said she’s still hopeful. 

“Keep your heads up and don’t lose faith because God is able to bring everyone home that’s missing and right now that’s what we all need to cling to,” Nyoka Matney said.

Rivers and other waterways remained swollen Friday after the record-breaking rain event.

Further downstream in Mecklenburg County, residents living along the Catawba River were voluntarily asked to evacuate as Duke Energy worked to maintain the water levels along the Catawba River and Mountain Island Lake.

Water levels are expected to remain high across the Carolinas as the water table works to handle the excessive rainfall, which will flow its way across the region and eventually into the Atlantic Ocean. 

RELATED: Body of 1-year-old recovered after Alexander County flooding