A tragic incident in Powder Springs, Tennessee, has resulted in the death of a 39-year-old mother who lost her life while attempting to rescue her son from floodwaters. The victim, identified as Mary Evelyn Nicole Manning-Kellione, reportedly jumped into a culvert in an effort to save her child on Sunday, June 28.
Emergency services received a distress call from Round Barn Road at approximately 11:20 a.m. on Sunday. Manning-Kellione’s son managed to escape and surfaced safely; however, the mother became trapped in the culvert. Rescue teams subsequently recovered her body from the water channel later that day, according to a statement from the Grainger County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO).
The culvert, a narrow channel designed to manage water runoff from roadways, became the scene of the tragic rescue attempt. A spokesperson for the GCSO confirmed that the young boy was able to find safety once he reached the other end of the culvert. Tragically, his mother’s efforts to save him ended in a devastating loss.
The rescue operation saw the involvement of multiple agencies, including the Grainger County EMS and the local volunteer fire and rescue squads. Their concerted efforts were aimed at locating and recovering Manning-Kellione from the flooded area. The identity of the boy has not been made public.
Manning-Kellione’s death is among five fatalities reported amid severe flooding in both Tennessee and Kentucky. The recent deluge has led to numerous emergency calls and an increased need for rescue operations across the affected regions.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, the National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for parts of Middle Tennessee, including the areas of Fentress and Pickett. This warning replaced the Flood Advisory that had been in effect over the weekend as officials continue to assess the risks associated with rising waters.
Authorities reminded residents to take precautions during such weather events and to stay alert for updates from emergency services. The community continues to grapple with the emotional fallout from this tragic incident, as they reflect on the dangers posed by sudden flooding.
As investigations continue, local officials are emphasising the importance of public safety during extreme weather, particularly in vulnerable areas prone to flooding. Mary Evelyn Nicole Manning-Kellione’s heart-wrenching attempt to save her son is a stark reminder of the perils that can arise in such circumstances, and further highlights the critical need for awareness during severe weather alerts.
Community members are encouraged to lend support to Manning-Kellione’s family during this difficult time. The loss of a loved one in such tragic circumstances is a reminder of the fragility of life and the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child.