Two Children Killed After Tree Falls on Home During Severe Storm

Transylvania County --  A heartbreaking tragedy struck a family in Transylvania County in the early hours of Sunday, March 16, 2025,

when a  huge tree fell onto a mobile home, killing two young children.

Emergency responders worked in a complex rescue effort, but despite their best efforts, both children succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

At approximately 3:38 a.m., Connestee Fire Rescue and Transylvania County EMS were dispatched to 6 Okies Drive in Brevard, following reports of a tree crashing into a residence with children trapped inside. Upon arrival, emergency crews discovered a single-wide trailer home with a massive, uprooted tree—approximately three feet in diameter—lodged through its center.

Three family members managed to escape unscathed, but two children remained trapped in their bedroom, directly beneath the tree and other debris.

Firefighters immediately launched an extrication effort, locating the two young victims trapped under the weight of the fallen tree. Unfortunately, the severity of their injuries was not survivable. Despite the exhaustive efforts of emergency crews, both children were pronounced dead at the scene.

Due to the complexity of the operation, additional resources were called in, including heavy equipment from multiple sources. Specialized teams worked to cut and stabilize the tree, carefully lifting sections to allow first responders access. After an intense and meticulous process, rescuers were able to recover the bodies of the two young victims at approximately 6:30 a.m..

One firefighter sustained a minor back injury during the operation and was transported to a local hospital, where they were treated and released.

The Connestee Fire Rescue team extended their deepest condolences to the grieving family, friends, and community members. "This is a tragic and devastating loss," the department stated in a press release.

Authorities confirmed that the victims were two male juveniles, ages 11 and 13. While officials have not publicly released their names, local reports have identified them as Joshua Leviskia (11) and Josiah Leviskia (13), students at Brevard Middle School.

Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office are conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of the incident.

Multiple Agencies Responded

The response to this tragic event involved a collaborative effort from multiple emergency and public service agencies, including:

Connestee Fire Rescue (Primary Response Agency)
City of Brevard Fire Department
Rosman Fire Rescue
Lake Toxaway Fire Rescue
Cedar Mountain Fire Rescue
Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office
Transylvania County EMS
Transylvania County Emergency Management
Transylvania County Rescue Squad
Transylvania County Organized Central Dispatch
Additional Resources: Toxaway Grading, West Grading, Carl’s Grading, Brevard Crane, and the City of Brevard Public Works Department.
Severe Weather Conditions a Factor
The tragic event occurred amid severe weather conditions, with strong winds and heavy rain reported across Western North Carolina. The tree's uprooting was likely a result of saturated soil and intense winds, though officials have not released a final determination.

The local community has already begun rallying around the grieving family. Support efforts are underway, and local organizations have expressed their condolences, offering assistance in this time of unimaginable sorrow.

Emergency responders who worked tirelessly at the scene have also received an outpouring of appreciation from the community for their courageous and dedicated efforts under such tragic circumstances.

The Connestee Fire Rescue team emphasized their gratitude to all agencies and personnel who assisted in the difficult recovery operation.

A Devastating Loss
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable dangers of severe weather and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities. The loss of two young lives has left Transylvania County in mourning, with neighbors and friends grieving alongside the affected family.

Source: 

Connestee Fire Rescue

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes