North CarolinaFollowing record and fatal flooding in Kerr County, numerous North Carolina state agencies have deployed to Texas to assist in the search for missing persons while the state struggles to recover from its own recent flood damage.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), which started operations in Texas on Monday, is one of those sent. Following flash floods that devastated central Texas and left a growing death toll, the SBI has joined search and recovery efforts. More than 100 people died, including victims from a summer camp for girls, according to officials.
SBI and Sheriff s Units Lead Search Efforts
To assist with the mission, North Carolina dispatched four specialized crews with cadaver dogs. Deputies like Jack Thorpe and his K-9 partner Fiji were dispatched by the Nash County Sheriff’s Office to help in challenging terrain.
According to Thorpe, “there’s a lot of damage out there, with cars tossed and crushed, mud all over the place, and timber scattered.” Everything in its path was devastated by the water.
Fiji was involved in the vital early recovery operations in Texas, but she has now gone back home. The destruction is being likened to previous catastrophes such as Hurricane Helene, which killed over 100 people in western North Carolina last year alone.
A Gesture of Solidarity and Gratitude
SBI Agent John Taylor underlined that this deployment is about returning a debt as well as helping fellow Americans in times of need. Texas sent vital supplies to help after Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina in 2024.
It’s the proper course of action. According to Taylor, assisting them now fosters a sense of mutual support and pride.
Seven Days on the Ground
In order to continue searching for those who have not been found, North Carolina’s response team is anticipated to remain in Texas for at least seven days. Although the damage in Texas is not as visibly extensive as it was during earlier disasters like Helene, officials from both states observe that the number of fatalities is sadly larger.
It’s unexpected and depressing,” Thorpe thought. More dead, less damage. The hardest part is that.
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