Cruso man marks sixth confirmed death in Haywood County after flooding from Fred

Haywood County Emergency Services announced the final missing person from the floods was found dead on Friday. John Krolak, of Cruso, was identified by family.

Officials said although the search for missing people has concluded, the recovery effort is ongoing.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Mrs. Krolak and to all the families of those whose lives were lost during this tragic flooding. Our hearts grieve together for the lives, homes, and livelihoods lost in this disaster. Together we seek comfort and healing and hope for the future,” said Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher.

Assessment teams from FEMA have been in Haywood County this week assessing the destruction and generating damage reports.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has formally requested that President Biden declare the storm's damage a major disaster for the state as they seek federal assistance.

“The people of Western North Carolina took a devastating blow from Tropical Storm Fred’s flooding,” said Gov. Cooper. “Federal assistance is needed to help rebuild and become more resilient ahead of future storms.”

Frank Mungo, 86, Franklin McKenzie, 68, Judy Mason, 73, Charlene Mungo, 83, and Frank Lauer Sr., 74, all of Cruso, were also killed in the flooding.

The flooding and mudslides were so bad as the remnants of Fred slammed into Haywood County that nearly 100 people had to be rescued, and several communities had water levels reach 3 to 7 feet higher than their previous high watermark.