On September 26, Luna Jade Gaddis passed away in a devastating car crash in Catawba County due to the heavy rain caused by Hurricane Helene. The storm, which claimed several lives and led to widespread destruction, impacted many communities and several families are mourning the loss of their loved ones.

The vehicle accident occurred at approximately 8:10 a.m. on Boggs Road near Hunsucker Drive while weather conditions were tricky. Luna was a passenger in a GMC Acadia driven by her mother, Lyndsey Nicole Gaddis. The vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a GMC Yukon.

While the 4-year-old died in the collision, her mother survived with non-life-threatening wounds. Also in the vehicle was a 12-year-old child who was hospitalized with critical injuries.

The driver of the GMC Yukon, 34-year-old Tiffany Miner Sipe from Claremont, also sustained trauma, although it was not considered serious. A 2-year-old passenger in the vehicle was acutely harmed, while another 4-year-old passenger was hurt but stable.

Trooper Christopher Casey of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol said that impairment was not a factor in the collision. He added that charges may be filed once the investigation is complete. The findings are being reviewed by the Catawba County District Attorney’s Office.

This tragic accident was one of several fatalities linked to Hurricane Helene. There have been reports of at least 15 deaths in Georgia, and officials are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage across the Southeast.

Meanwhile, Luna Jade Gaddis’s death has left a deep impact on her community and family. Her grandmother, Elizabeth Gaddis, described Luna as a “gift from God” with an infectious grin and a loving personality.

“Her smile could light up a room, and she gave the best hugs,” she added in a statement. “We will be forever grateful for the four and a half years He blessed us with her.”

Furthermore, Luna’s obituary paints a picture of a joyful child who loved spending time outdoors, especially playing with her brother. She was also known for her love of pageants, dressing up, and doting on her dog, Nika.

Her funeral service is scheduled for October 3, 2024, at Welcome Baptist Church in Catawba, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory. However, many have already taken to social media to express their sorrow and share memories of the little girl. One relative posted, “My cousin’s granddaughter, home with Jesus.”

Luna’s maternal grandmother, Crystal Flynn, posted photos of her granddaughter, and her friends were quick to comment. Someone wrote, “Precious beautiful baby doll, I’m so heartbroken. Sending many hugs and prayers, my friend. We love you.”

Another message read, “Omg Crystal, I am so sorry to hear of this horrible news. I have no words, I couldn’t even imagine that level of heartbreak. Sending up big prayers of peace and comfort for you and yours.” A third Facebook friend added, “Precious little one. Prayers for you and your family. She was truly an angel sent from God.”

Our hearts go out to Luna’s family during this incredibly painful time. May they find comfort in the love and memories they shared with her.