In Kerr County, Texas, a catastrophic flood has claimed the lives of at least 32 individuals, with more than 27 young girls reported missing. Among the deceased are three campers from Camp Mystic, a private Christian retreat for girls in Hunt, Texas. Janie Hunt’s mother confirmed her daughter’s death, while the nonprofit A Voice for the Voiceless identified Renee Smajstrla as another confirmed victim. A third girl was also identified but has not been publicly named at her family’s request. Kerr County officials reported a total of 18 adult victims and 14 children, with ongoing efforts to identify five adults and three children still unaccounted for among the 750 campers present when the flood struck.
The devastation at Camp Mystic was captured through aerial images, revealing buildings either swept away or left in ruins. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly expressed sorrow over the losses, stating that “nobody saw this coming.” The community was already mourning the death of Jane Ragsdale, the camp’s director, who was also confirmed dead in the disaster. Heart O’ the Hills camp, located nearby, noted that no children were present there during the flood. The community is grappling with the overwhelming loss, as families gather at reunification centers hoping for news of their loved ones.
In response to the tragedy, Texas representative Chip Roy shared images of the destruction. President Donald Trump offered his condolences via social media, emphasizing the administration’s support for local response efforts. Families have turned to designated reunification centers, such as Ingram Elementary School and The Arcadia Live Theater, seeking information on missing individuals. Parents of missing campers, like Ellen Toranzo and Carrie Hanna, expressed their distress as they wait for updates on their daughters, who remain unaccounted for.
Survivors like Elinor Lester recounted harrowing experiences, including being evacuated by helicopter after navigating through floodwaters. She remarked on the extent of the camp’s destruction. The National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard responded swiftly, helping to evacuate individuals as the Guadalupe River surged dramatically due to unexpected rainfall. As of Saturday morning, over 850 individuals had been rescued or evacuated, and additional aircraft support was being sought to enhance rescue efforts.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a federal disaster for 15 counties, urging state residents to turn to God in these trying times. The state deployed over 1,300 responders and extensive vehicle support in efforts to resolve the chaotic situation. Authorities have pledged to continue searching relentlessly for missing persons, attesting to the community’s strong commitment to achieving closure for affected families.
Vice President JD Vance articulated the national sentiment of grief during this tragedy, extending prayers for the victims and their families. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office is actively encouraging anyone with information about missing loved ones to reach out to the Red Cross for assistance, highlighting the community’s collective effort to cope with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event. With ongoing searches and rescue operations, the focus remains on finding the missing and providing support to those affected by the flood’s devastation.
