2 NC deputies killed by Helene flooding, sheriff’s association says

NORTH CAROLINA — The North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association says two deputies in western North Carolina were killed by the significant flooding and hazardous conditions caused by remnants of Hurricane Helene.

The deputies were from the Macon County Sheriff’s Office and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

In a Facebook post, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news. They said on Friday at 11:30 a.m., a 911 call was made. Witnesses said they saw someone in a truck before it went underwater.

The sheriff’s office learned Jim Lau, one of the courthouse security officers, hadn’t returned to work from lunch and his truck matched the description of the one seen in the river.

Early on Saturday, crews found Lau’s body in the river.

“Jim was very liked and respected within our department. He was known to be a hard worker, dependable, and he jumped in wherever help was needed. His absence will truly be felt in our agency,” the sheriff’s office said. “We ask for prayers for this family and loved ones, and we ask for prayers for our department. Continue to pray for Western North Carolina as a whole; the tragedy that surrounds our mountain communities is unimaginable.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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