Tropical Storm Helene claims lives in Aiken County as community remembers victims

Tropical Storm Helene caused significant damage in Aiken County, South Carolina, on September 27, resulting in seven fatalities. Four deaths were due to falling trees, one from a house fire, and two from respiratory issues related to the storm. Among the victims were Jerry and Marcia Savage, a couple married for over 50 years, who died when a tree fell on their home. Michael Roukous, a 29-year-old lineman, was also killed by a falling tree while renting a home. Joyce Barfield, 78, died in a fire caused by a candle after losing power. Other victims included Joseph Gullen, 70, who was crushed by a tree, and Rhonda Gabriel, 66, and David Welch, 75, who both died from respiratory distress linked to the storm. GoFundMe pages have been established for some victims to support their families.