Joshua Leviskia, 11, and Josiah Leviskia, 13, Tragically Killed in Western North Carolina After Tree Collapses on Their Home

On the early morning of Saturday, March 15, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in the western part of North Carolina, claiming the lives of two young brothers, Joshua Leviskia, 11, and Josiah Leviskia, 13, after a massive tree collapsed onto their home. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene following a distress call at 3:38 a.m. from family members reporting that a tree had fallen on their home, trapping the two boys inside.

The incident unfolded in the Connestee community of Transylvania County, a rural area known for its dense forests and mountainous terrain. Local authorities, including Connestee Fire Rescue and Transylvania County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), were the first to arrive at the scene of devastation. Upon their arrival, it became clear that the tree, which was estimated to be approximately three feet in diameter, had caused severe damage to the family’s mobile home. The tree had struck the roof of the single-wide trailer, resulting in a catastrophic collapse of the structure, with a particularly severe impact on the children’s bedroom.

Initial reports from the scene indicated that Joshua and Josiah had been asleep in their room when the tree came crashing down in the dead of night. The force of the impact was so strong that a portion of the trailer was completely destroyed, trapping the brothers under the debris and wreckage. It took emergency crews several hours to carefully navigate through the shattered remnants of the home to locate the boys.

Once located, the rescuers discovered that both Joshua and Josiah had succumbed to their injuries. Despite the valiant efforts of the first responders and medical personnel, there was little they could do to save the young brothers.

Family members who were at the scene recounted the harrowing events, noting that the tree had fallen with little warning, making the tragedy all the more devastating. It remains unclear exactly what caused the tree to topple at such an early hour, although weather conditions may have played a role. Authorities have stated that they will continue to investigate the cause of the incident.

The loss of Joshua and Josiah has left the community of Connestee, as well as their family, in mourning. The brothers, described by those who knew them as bright and loving, were cherished members of their local community. Joshua, 11, was known for his boundless curiosity and his passion for animals, while 13-year-old Josiah was remembered for his athleticism and his kindness toward others.

The Leviskia family has received an outpouring of support from local residents, who have expressed their condolences and offered assistance in the wake of this heartbreaking event. In honor of Joshua and Josiah, the community has begun organizing a memorial service to celebrate their lives and provide comfort to the grieving family.

This tragedy has also raised concerns about the safety of mobile homes and the potential dangers posed by trees in rural areas, particularly during severe weather events. Local authorities are urging residents to ensure their homes are structurally sound and to be vigilant during storms or high winds.

As the investigation continues, the community of Connestee is left to grapple with the unimaginable loss of two young lives taken far too soon. Joshua and Josiah’s family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time, but they have also expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received from friends, neighbors, and strangers alike.

The story of Joshua and Josiah Leviskia serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of the forces of nature that can cause devastation in an instant.