
Last Friday evening, a devastating incident struck Nova Scotia, claiming the lives of three individuals, including 6-year-old Natalie Hazel Harnish from Brooklyn, Nova Scotia, 6-year-old Colton Sisco from Martock, Nova Scotia, and 52-year-old Nicholas Anthony Holland. The tragic events unfolded during the Nova Scotia flash flooding, leaving their families and communities in profound grief. As search efforts continue to find the missing youth, the region mourns the loss of these precious lives and extends its support to the affected families. Continue reading more.
What happened? The Deadly Incident Unfolds
On a distressing Saturday, a group of four individuals, including Nicholas, Natalie, Colton, and a young individual below the age of 18, went missing during an evacuation attempt amidst the flash flooding. Tragically, the vehicles they were traveling in were swept off the road and submerged by floodwaters. This devastating event marked the beginning of a rescue and recovery mission that would touch the hearts of countless people.
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Margaret Leahey Bailey wrote on fb
52-year-old Nicholas Anthony Holland has also been identified as the adult, who was swept away in those torrential floods last Friday evening. A male youth who was in the vehicle with him, is still missing and searchers continue to look for him. So far with no success. Mr. Holland, leaves behind a partner and two children, is described in his obituary as a talented musician. He was a member of a local heavy metal rock band called Hogtooth.
Here is his Obituary.
It is with shock and unbelievable sadness that we announce the sudden death of Nick Holland on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at age 52. We, his family, are broken hearted. He is survived by his partner Michelle Stewart; his two children, Robie (Michaela), and Sophie Holland; his brother, Philip (Tanya), his niece, Payton Holland; his mother, Joan (Don Hood); his father, Tony (Elsie) Holland; and his former wife, and mother of his children, Julie (Holland) Giffin. Nick was a very talented musician and was a member of many bands throughout his life. All who knew him knew music was his passion. He was, at the time of his death, a proud member of the heavy metal group “Hogtooth”.
The family would like to profoundly thank all the members of the various Search and Rescue teams, the private citizens and the members of the band Hogtooth for their tireless efforts to find him. They all went above and beyond to bring Nick home to us and we will be forever deeply grateful for that.
There will be a gathering to remember Nick and honour the life he lived on Friday, July 28, from 1-3 p.m. in Ronald A. Walker Funeral Home, 13549 Peggy’s Cove Road, Upper Tantallon.
Should you wish, donations can be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences can be made to www.rawalker.ca
Four people, including Mr. Holland, and a male teen in one vehicle, and in another vehicle–six year old Natalie Hazel Harnish, were all reported missing Saturday after the vehicles they were travelling in were swept off the road and submerged by floodwaters while evacuating the extreme flooding in the Brooklyn/Windsor region of Nova Scotia.
The remains of the second child were discovered this week.
The Ongoing Search Operation
In the aftermath of the incident, multiple rescue teams and agencies have come together to aid in the search operation. West Hants, East Hants, Digby, Annapolis, and the Valley teams are actively participating, along with various local fire departments, the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, and RCMP dog and air services. The dedicated efforts of these brave individuals have been relentless in the pursuit of finding the missing youth.

Unprecedented Storms and Flash Flooding
The region faced unprecedented storms starting on July 21, leading to record-breaking rainfall of 250 millimeters in parts of Nova Scotia. The flash flooding caused extensive damage to roads, bridges, and homes, exacerbating the challenges faced during the rescue and recovery efforts.
Remembering Natalie Hazel Harnish
Natalie Hazel Harnish, a shining light full of energy, will be fondly remembered by her loved ones. She loved cheerleading and playing with her brother and cousins, often seen doing cartwheels around the house. Her untimely passing has left an immense void in the hearts of those who knew her.
Colton Sisco’s Loving Spirit
Colton Sisco, a loving, thoughtful, and caring child, made friends wherever he went. He had a passion for cars and cherished spending time with his parents and big brother, leaving behind beautiful memories cherished by his family.
Nicholas Anthony Holland’s Musical Legacy
Nicholas Anthony Holland, a talented musician and member of the local heavy metal rock band called Hogtooth, leaves behind a partner and two children. His music and presence in the community will be remembered and celebrated by those who shared moments with him.
Standing Strong Amidst Grief
As the search operation continues to find the missing youth and the community grapples with the loss of Natalie Hazel Harnish, Colton Sisco, and Nicholas Anthony Holland, the outpouring of support and resilience shines through. Their memories will forever live on in the hearts of their loved ones, and the strength of the Nova Scotia community will unite them in their time of grief. May their souls rest in peace, and may those affected by this tragedy find comfort and solace in the love and support surrounding them.