Kim Ashby, a beloved wife, mother and teacher as sadly passed away at the age of 58 after days of being reported missing. She was was swept away alongside her husband, Rod Ashby, their vacation home, and their three beloved dogs on September 27, 2024.
The couple had traveled from Sanford, North Carolina, to their vacation home in Elk Park, hoping to retrieve cherished family items from the property’s garage. As they worked to secure their belongings, the situation took a tragic turn. According to their daughter, Jessica Meidinger, everything was going smoothly until Rod heard a loud crack that alarmed him. Upon investigating, he discovered that the corner pillar of their home had been compromised.
Before they could make their way to safety, the house slid into the nearby river, leaving Kim, Rod, and their dogs trapped in a precarious situation. In a desperate attempt to remain afloat, the couple climbed onto a mattress in the back room of their home. Meidinger recounted that they rode down the river at an alarming speed of 30 to 40 miles per hour, clinging to hope and each other.
Tragically, their fight for survival ended when the house collided with an embankment, collapsing on top of them. The harrowing circumstances of their disappearance have left family and friends devastated, and search efforts are ongoing as authorities continue to look for any signs of the couple.
The ongoing search for Kim and Rod serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of preparedness during severe weather events. As communities come together to support one another, they also reflect on the fragility of life and the enduring hope that those who are missing will be found.
Kim Ashby GoFundMe
A GoFundMe has been set up by loved once with caption “Rod and Kim Ashby Fundraiser- Hurricane Helene Relief.” A statement from the account reads “As many of you know, my mom, Kim Ashby has been missing since September 27th when Hurricane Helene swept her and my stepdad’s vacation home into Elk River. After several days, Rod was evacuated safely and has been living at our home along with many other family members who have gathered to band together during this difficult time.”
