The catastrophe took five lives, including Mattie and Conrad’s mother, Katie Seley. The family, visiting from Charleston, South Carolina, were attending a family barbecue when the floodwaters engulfed their car. Katie’s fiancé, mother, and 4-year-old son miraculously managed to escape or were rescued from the deadly waters.
The Community’s Grief Over Mattie Sheils
In expressing the community’s collective sorrow, Chief Brewer stated, “Our hearts are shattered tonight.” Although Mattie was found far from her home, her tragic loss has brought her closer than ever to the hearts of those in her community.
Brewer assured that they would stand by the family during this difficult period, saying, “We cannot even begin to understand the extent of their grief, but we will stand by them as they navigate this heartrending tragedy.”
