Recovery Mission at Black Creek Concludes with Community Support and Multi-Agency Effort

GADSDEN — What began as a hopeful rescue operation tragically transitioned into a recovery mission in Gadsden this week, as first responders and multiple agencies worked tirelessly to locate a missing woman swept away in the waters of Black Creek.

Mrs. Regina Smith of Lincoln was reported missing on Sunday, May 25th, after entering the waters below Noccalula Falls. The initial rescue efforts began that same evening, with Gadsden Police and Fire Departments working late into the night. However, severe weather and dangerous water conditions—caused by recent heavy rainfall—forced a temporary suspension of the search.

With Class IV and V rapids turning Black Creek into a treacherous environment, the mission resumed early Monday morning, Memorial Day, under continued hazardous conditions. First responders faced not only the emotional weight of the task at hand but also the very real physical dangers posed by the violent currents.

The operation concluded midday Tuesday, May 27th, when Mrs. Smith’s body was recovered, bringing closure to a heartbroken family and community.

WEIS Radio reached out to the City of Gadsden, who graciously provided a full list of the agencies that assisted in the search. Their involvement demonstrates a remarkable level of coordination, professionalism, and bravery from all involved. The following teams participated in the operation:

• Gadsden Fire Department

• Gadsden Police Department

• Gadsden/Etowah EMA

• Pell City Fire Department

• Fischer Rescue Squad

• Rosalie Rescue Squad

• Cherokee County EMA

• Guntersville Fire Department

• Marshall County EMA

• Alabama EMA

• Calera Fire Department

• Irondale Fire Department

• Trussville Fire Department

• Vestavia Hills Fire Department

• Homewood Fire Department

• Mountain Brook Fire Department

• Floyd County Sheriff’s Office

• Etowah County Sheriff’s Office

• North Alabama Mutual Aid Association

• Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

To support the operation, WEIS Radio was also contacted and told the Etowah County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) was coordinating food donations for first responders. The response from the community and local organizations was swift and generous.

Food and supplies were provided by:

• Family Success Center

• Etowah County Food Bank

• McGuffey’s Healthcare

• Home Instead

• Salvation Army

• The Amp

• Jack’s at Noccalula

• Etowah County VOAD

In addition, countless individuals and neighbors from the Noccalula community and greater Lookout Mountain area brought water, snacks, and meals, offering heartfelt support to those working on the front lines.

While the loss of Regina Smith is a tragedy, the community’s response—alongside the dedication of our emergency responders—serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, compassion, and resilience that binds us together during times of crisis.

At WEIS Radio, we continue to extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family and our utmost gratitude to those who answered the call. Though we hope to never face such heartbreak again, we remain profoundly thankful for the heroes who step forward when we need them most.