In a tragic turn of events, a family-of-five and their neighbor fell victim to a devastating landslide that struck the remote island community of Wrangell in Alaska's southeast region. The catastrophe, which occurred on Monday night, resulted in the loss of lives and widespread destruction.

The family has been identified as Timothy Heller, 44, and his wife Beth Heller, 36, along with their three children - Mara, 16, Derek, 12, and Kara, 11. The Heller family was inside their home when the landslide struck, causing immense devastation to their property. The bodies of Timothy, Beth, and their oldest daughter Mara were recovered by search crews late Monday or early Tuesday morning. Unfortunately, the two younger children, Derek and Kara, remain missing.

Tragically, another resident impacted by the landslide was Otto Florschutz, a 65-year-old fisherman and neighbor of the Hellers. His body was also discovered amidst the wreckage. Otto's wife, however, managed to survive.

The landslide, estimated to be 450 feet wide, occurred during a period of heavy rainfall and strong winds, which further intensified the destructive force. It tore down a swath of evergreen trees, striking three homes and burying a section of the highway near Wrangell.

The local authorities, including search and rescue teams, have been tirelessly working to locate the missing children and clean up the aftermath of the landslide. The immense scale of the disaster has severed access to around 54 other homes in the area. Despite the danger and challenges, roughly 35 to 45 people have chosen to remain in their residences.

In response to the tragedy, the community of Wrangell has rallied together to provide support and relief. An online Facebook group called Wrangell Strong Community Relief Group has organized donations and efforts to help alleviate the damage caused by the landslide. Messages of condolence and support have poured in from friends, neighbors, and community members.

Yvonne Heller, Timothy Heller's mother, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support received from the community during this difficult time. She shared a post on Facebook, emphasizing the resilience and caring nature of Wrangell residents.

As the search for Derek and Kara continues, the community remains united in their prayers and hopes for their safe recovery. A close friend of the Heller family has set up a GoFundMe page to collect donations for landslide relief, while a local bank has also opened an account for the same purpose.

The tragic loss of the Heller family and Otto Florschutz has deeply impacted the community of Wrangell, leaving a void that will be felt for years to come. The entire nation stands in solidarity with Wrangell during this time of grief and recovery.

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