A cloud of grief hangs heavy over the tight-knit community in Weaverville, North Carolina as family and friends mourn the tragic loss of Carolina Bree Franks. The 26-year-old woman sadly died following a tragic accident during her shift at Zips Car Wash.
Carolina, affectionately known as Bree, was a dedicated employee who took pride in her work. However, fate dealt a cruel hand as she became entangled in car wash equipment, an accident that claimed her life on Saturday. The news of her passing came as a devastating shock to her grandmother, Ernestine Franks, who had recently spent precious time with Bree before the tragedy unfolded.
While speaking with CBS7 affiliate, WLOS, she said, “I was just with her, so I could not believe it. I was in shock,” Ernestine Franks tearfully recalled. Bree, who had been raised by her grandmother since the tender age of 6, had visited her for a few days in Kentucky before returning home to North Carolina. Little did anyone know that those would be their final moments together. Speaking more on the incident, Ernestine said, Bree “was working at the car wash, cleaning, and she got tangled up in a piece of equipment. When they found her, she was already dead.”
Described as a kind-hearted and compassionate young woman, Bree’s infectious love for others and animals endeared her to all who knew her. Her warm smile and genuine spirit brightened the lives of those around her, making her loss all the more devastating.
“She enjoyed her job. She said it was a good job. She was special. She loved everybody. She loved animals. She’s just a nice young lady,” Ernestine Franks lovingly reminisced.
RELATED: Georgetown Coach Tasha Butts Dies Two Years After Breast Cancer Diagnosis
The tragic incident has prompted an investigation led by the North Carolina Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health. Zips Car Wash, where Bree worked, is cooperating fully with authorities as they seek to uncover the circumstances surrounding the accident. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, the Weaverville location remains closed, a somber reminder of the life that was tragically cut short.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our team member’s family in this time of loss. This is such an unfortunate tragedy,” expressed a Zips spokeswoman in a statement released on Monday. The company, deeply saddened by the incident, is committed to supporting the investigation and providing solace to Bree’s grieving family.
As the community mourns the loss of a bright and promising young life, the memory of Carolina Bree Franks will forever be cherished. Her untimely passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring every moment. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her loved ones find solace in the memories they shared with her.