Armed Threats Against FEMA Workers Hinder Hurricane Recovery in North Carolina

Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction across six U.S. states, hitting North Carolina especially hard. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers have been at the forefront of relief efforts, aiding the 65,000 Rutherford County residents struggling with the aftermath of the storm. However, their work was disrupted by a dangerous turn of events—an armed threat that forced FEMA crews to relocate and pause their operations.

Arrest Made After Threats Against FEMA Workers

On Saturday, October 7, a disturbing report surfaced in Rutherford County, North Carolina, indicating that a man armed with a rifle had made threatening comments towards FEMA employees. The man, later identified as William Parsons, 44, of Bostic, North Carolina, was arrested by local authorities. He was charged with “going armed to the terror of the public” after authorities learned of his threats against workers assisting with hurricane relief efforts. Parsons was armed with a rifle and a handgun at the time of his arrest, according to reports from the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

Initially, rumours circulated that a group of militia members was involved, allegedly targeting FEMA workers in the Chimney Rock and Lake Lure areas. However, after further investigation, law enforcement concluded that Parsons had acted alone. Parsons was released on a $10,000 bond, but the incident has left FEMA workers and local authorities on high alert.

Hurricane Helene’s Destruction

Hurricane Helene landed as a Category 4 storm on September 26, 2024, near Perry, Florida, before sweeping through multiple states, causing widespread devastation. North Carolina was one of the hardest-hit states, with over 225 lives lost and significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Towns like Chimney Rock, locate about 400 miles from the hurricane’s initial impact, were nearly wipe off the map.

Efforts to restore basic services, such as power and water, have been slow. For instance, power was only restore to the Chimney Rock Fire Department on Thursday, October 5, while many homes and businesses in the area remain without electricity. Shawn Calvert of Duke Energy says, “It’s a war zone. Half of the town of Chimney Rock – there are five or six businesses up here that use to be there that are completely go.”

Misinformation Complicates Relief Efforts

The relief effort following Hurricane Helene has been further complicate by widespread misinformation. Several false claims about the government’s response have spread online, fueling distrust and fear among residents. One rumour suggested that the federal government planned to seize land in Chimney Rock and bulldoze bodies under the rubble, prompting militia groups to target FEMA workers. Authorities have debunked these claims, but they continue circulating on social media, making recovery efforts even more challenging.

FEMA has taken steps to combat the rumours in response to the growing spread of misinformation. The agency create a dedicate webpage to discredit false claims, such as suggestions that disaster relief funds were being divert to migrants. President Joe Biden has also addressed the issue, calling out conspiracy theories that suggest the government can control the weather—a claim that some Republican politicians have promoted.

During a recent visit to Florida, another state hit by hurricanes, Biden announced $600 million in aid for areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The president also took the opportunity to debunk the baseless claims, emphasizing that the government’s primary focus is on helping those in need.

Operational Changes for FEMA Workers

In light of the armed threat in North Carolina, FEMA has made significant adjustments to its relief operations in Rutherford County. Typically, FEMA workers go door-to-door to assist disaster survivors and help them apply for aid. However, following the threat, FEMA temporarily halted this practice and stationed its workers at fixed locations for safety.

“FEMA continues to support communities impacted by Helene and help survivors apply for assistance. For the safety of our dedicated staff and the disaster survivors we are helping, FEMA has made some operational adjustments,” the agency said in a statement. FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Centers remain open, and residents can still register for assistance online or over the phone.

Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement agencies remain on high alert, although no additional credible threats have been report since Parsons’ arrest. Capt. Jamie Keever of the sheriff’s office emphasized that while authorities are not aware of any further threats, they are continuing to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of FEMA workers and residents alike.

Growing Tension in Western North Carolina

The incident involving Parsons is part of growing tension and unrest in western North Carolina. Many towns in the region were devastate by Hurricane Helene, and residents are frustrate with the slow pace of recovery. However, the spread of conspiracy theories and false information has also played a significant role in escalating tensions.

Some residents have openly harassed federal employees working on recovery efforts. According to Riva Duncan, a former U.S. Forest Service official, “We don’t want your help here” is a common sentiment express toward FEMA workers. In one instance, a Forest Service crew member from California was force to temporarily relocate after facing threats at a gas station.

“It’s terrible because a lot of these folks who need assistance are refusing it because they believe the stuff people are saying about FEMA and the government,” Duncan said. “And it’s sad because they are probably the ones who need the help the most.”

Moving Forward with Recovery

Despite the challenges, FEMA and other federal agencies remain committed to helping North Carolina recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. On Sunday, October 8, FEMA teams resumed their operations, albeit with heightened security measures. The agency continues working closely with state and local authorities to ensure relief efforts proceed safely and effectively.

In a statement, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasized the importance of keeping FEMA staff safe while they help disaster-impacted communities. “I wanted to ensure we protected our staff on the ground while we worked diligently with local law enforcement to understand the full situation,” she said. Criswell also expressed gratitude for the cooperation between FEMA, Governor Roy Cooper, and local law enforcement.

As recovery efforts continue, local leaders urge residents to avoid spreading misinformation and to focus on supporting one another during this difficult time. Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office has asked people to remain vigilant but not unnecessarily escalate the situation.

Conclusion

The arrest of William Parsons highlights the difficulties that relief workers face, not only from the physical challenges of disaster recovery but also from the spread of dangerous misinformation and threats. While Hurricane Helene left a devastating mark on North Carolina, the recovery process continues, thanks to the dedication of FEMA workers and other responders.

Communities must come together to support the relief efforts and ensure that those who need assistance receive it. North Carolina can rebuild and recover stronger than ever by working together and staying informed.