The small community of Globe-Miami is grappling with the aftermath of deadly floods that unexpectedly swept through Gila County, leading to at least three confirmed deaths and widespread damage. According to a statement obtained by AZ Family, Globe Mayor Al Gameros stated, "We've never seen anything like it in our community. We feel the pain of our business people who have lost their livelihoods, their investments, and it hurts us all."
Amid the chaos and recovery efforts, concerns are being raised over the missing resident Pete Green, a 64-year-old local described by FOX 10 Phoenix. Information thus far suggests Green was likely to have been in his usual abode, a creek bed residency behind the train depot, when the floods struck. Globe police have since been actively trying to locate him, but have yet to find any luck in tracing his whereabouts.
As the town counts its losses, Heather Johnson and David Acevedo have been identified as among those who have perished during the flooding. Local police revealed that Johnson was a delivery driver for Country Copper News, while Acevedo hailed from Claypool. The identification of a third victim, found in Wheatfields, has not been disclosed yet.
Community efforts to support recovery are in full swing, with the Salvation Army partnering with Arizona's Family to collect supply donations at the Chamber of Commerce on Broad Street in Globe, as detailed in AZ Family. Amidst coordinating recovery operations, Carl Melford, Gila County emergency manager, told the publication, "We're working on bringing in more of the agencies that can help, the nonprofits that can to help the individuals." The fairgrounds are set to convert into a Disaster Assistance Center, providing a "one-stop shop" for those in need.
According to AZ Family, in a gesture of community solidarity, the utility provider Arizona Public Service has pledged $250,000 to aid in relief efforts, reassuring customers of their commitment to the Globe-Miami area's recovery. "We want our customers to know they're not alone – we're here to help however we can," said APS president and CEO Ted Geisler. Residents and Utility workers alike grapple with their roles in the aftermath, all the while hoping for a swift resolution to Pete Green's disappearance and the town's path to rebuilding.
Anyone with information about Pete Green or who has photos or videos of the flooding is encouraged to reach out to the Globe Police Department at 928-425-4449 or use the Globe PD's Tip411 app.
