Gov. Josh Stein Honors Lives Lost to Hurricane Helene in Fairview Visit

FAIRVIEW, N.C. — On March 28, 2025, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein visited Fairview to mark the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene and to honor the 106 lives lost during the storm. The visit coincided with a moment of remembrance for the victims, highlighting the enduring impact of the tragedy on the community.

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Stein signed a proclamation acknowledging the loss and resilience of those affected by the hurricane, which caused significant destruction across the Carolinas. During the visit, he expressed his commitment to advocating for additional federal funding to support ongoing recovery efforts.

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“$60 billion in damages — there’s not that much capital in Western North Carolina,” Stein stated. “Our state budget is $30 billion; there is not enough money to help the folks in Western North Carolina. That is why we need federal support.”

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The governor’s remarks highlighted the human toll of the disaster, stating, “Each of those people had parents, children, spouses, brothers, sisters, cousins, friends and neighbors who are feeling pain.” This statement was made before Stein held a moment of silence to honor those who died in the hurricane.

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During his visit, Stein met with families of victims, including Marissa Pack, who tragically lost 11 family members in the storm. “To have Governor Stein come out here and basically say everything that we’ve been saying to ourselves — it’s just so humbling,” Pack remarked. “He took the time to learn about what we went through that day.”

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Among those remembered were Battalion Chief Tony Garrison and his nephew Brandon, who died while attempting to rescue others. “I don’t think you can have a better testament to dedication than someone who loses their life trying to save another,” Stein added.

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While Stein acknowledged the progress made in recovery efforts, he emphasized the need for continued support from various governmental levels. He noted recent discussions with federal officials about funding allocations, maintaining that without further assistance, recovery efforts will face significant challenges.

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“Thousands of people lost their homes, thousands of businesses lost their ability to function. Most heartbreaking, 106 North Carolinians lost their lives,” he said, indicating the scale of the disaster’s impact.

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In addition to discussing recovery from Hurricane Helene, Stein addressed ongoing wildfires affecting the region in a separate news conference. “As we gather to remember the impacts of one disaster, we must also recognize the disaster underway as we speak,” he said. Well over 500 firefighting personnel are currently combating wildfires in the Black Cove Complex, exacerbated by conditions left from the hurricane.

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Stein announced a State of Emergency to facilitate wildfire response efforts and noted that no fatalities have been reported from the wildfires. “Thank God, to our knowledge, no one has died,” he stated. “One firefighter needed to be extracted in an emergency, but all indications are he will recover.”

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As recovery continues from both the hurricane and ongoing wildfires, Gov. Stein reaffirmed his dedication to supporting affected communities, urging state and federal officials to step up assistance efforts.