The Boyz Automotive was severely damaged during Tropical Storm Helene.

The shop is preparing to reopen with limited operations.

SWANNANOA – When Tropical Storm Helene swept through Western North Carolina Sept. 27, 2024, it took much of the equipment inside The Boyz Automotive with it.

The shop sits on the banks of the Swannanoa River and many feet of water in both the office building and mechanic shop during Helene left devastation in its wake.

“With all the water pressure, it opened the back wall and it kind of helped relieve some of the water in here,” Owner Angel Rueda said.

Rueda co-owns the shops with Luis Morales. The two bought the shop from the previous owner only a couple of years ago.

Office Manager Maria Figueroa said because the tools were against the back wall of the sho

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