In a tragic incident at Camp Mystic, a private Christian camp in Hunt, Texas, two young girls were found dead following a catastrophic flood. The victims, identified as Renee Smajstrla and Janie Hunt, were among the approximately 750 campers when the floods struck. The Kerr County Sheriff, Larry Leitha, confirmed that between 23 and 25 campers were still unaccounted for in the aftermath. Overall, at least 25 fatalities were reported across the surrounding areas, prompting families to gather at local reunification centers, anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones.
The floodwaters surged dramatically after a torrential downpour, leading the Guadalupe River to rise nearly 30 feet in just 45 minutes. This swift flooding severely impacted Camp Mystic, where younger campers, typically aged 8 and older, were housed along riverbanks, making them particularly vulnerable. One of the survivors, 13-year-old Elinor Lester, recounted her harrowing experience of being evacuated by helicopter after wading through floodwaters, noting that the camp was completely destroyed.
In response to the unfolding disaster, the Texas National Guard was mobilized, with over 1,000 state responders and more than 800 vehicles deployed for rescue operations. Helicopters and military vehicles facilitated the evacuation of over 237 individuals, including 167 by air. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency for 15 counties and indicated that this number might increase as the situation evolved. He emphasized the importance of collective prayers during this time of crisis, reflecting the sentiment shared by many in the community.
Former President Donald Trump expressed his shock at the floods, labeling the event a “terrible thing,” while also assuring that federal aid would be made available to assist Texas. His comments were echoed by Vice President JD Vance, who also expressed his condolences and shared his hopes for the victims and their families. The tragedy deeply resonates within the state and across the nation, as community members rally together to support one another during this challenging time.
Amid the despair, local officials have begun coordinating efforts to reunite families with their missing loved ones. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office urged anyone with missing contacts to reach out to the Red Cross for assistance, emphasizing the urgency of the current situation. As the search for remaining campers continues, the community stands vigilant, hoping for positive news amid the heartbreak.
As rescue teams remain engaged in recovery efforts, the focus now shifts to providing support for the affected families as they navigate this tragic event. With reports of missing individuals and the scale of destruction, the emotional and logistical challenges presented by this incident are immense. Community leaders, state officials, and volunteers are mobilizing resources to assist those impacted, illustrating the strength and solidarity of the region during this trying time.
