Search for Missing Girls at Summer Camp After Deadly Hill Country Floods Claim Dozens
Texas Flood Tragedy: Urgent
🌊 Texas Flooding Latest: Desperate Search for Girls Swept Away at Summer Camp After Dozens Killed in Catastrophic Flash Floods
Kerr County, TX – July 5, 2025
Tragedy struck the heart of Texas Hill Country this week as devastating flash floods claimed at least 27 lives, with dozens more still missing — including over 20 young girls from a beloved all-girls summer camp, Camp Mystic, along the Guadalupe River.
Heavy rains on Thursday evening led to a catastrophic surge in river levels. In a matter of 45 minutes, the Guadalupe River rose more than 26 feet, overwhelming homes, roads, and campsites without warning. The sudden deluge turned idyllic summer escapes into disaster zones overnight.
Camp Mystic: A Scene of Panic and Loss
Among the hardest-hit areas was Camp Mystic, a historic and well-regarded Christian summer camp that housed over 750 young girls when the floodwaters struck. Campers were asleep in their cabins when the water swept through, tearing buildings from their foundations and carrying them downstream.
Terrifying accounts describe counselors desperately tying ropes between trees and bridges as they tried to lead terrified campers to safety. Despite heroic efforts, at least two young girls—9-year-olds Renee Smajstrla and Janie Hunt—have been confirmed dead, and 23 others remain unaccounted for.
Parents from across the state and beyond rushed to Kerr County, seeking any word about their children. Reunification centers were established quickly, but for many families, the wait continues with growing fear and uncertainty.
Mass Rescue Operations Underway
Texas officials have mobilized an unprecedented emergency response, involving over 1,000 rescuers, including the National Guard, Coast Guard, FEMA, Game Wardens, and local volunteers. Helicopters, boats, drones, and dive teams are combing the river and surrounding wilderness areas in the desperate search for survivors.
"These girls could be in a tree, under debris, or swept miles away," said Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, pledging 24/7 search operations. “We’re not giving up. Not one parent has been left behind without answers.”
As of Saturday morning, over 850 people have been rescued, but dozens are still missing.
A State in Mourning
The tragedy has shaken not only local communities but the entire nation. Social media has been flooded with support, prayers, and pleas for information. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency in several counties, and President Trump has offered federal support, promising resources “for as long as it takes.”
The Weather Threat Isn’t Over
Meteorologists warn that the crisis may worsen. More rain is expected throughout the weekend, with flood watches still in effect. The saturated ground and surging rivers raise the risk of additional landslides, road collapses, and flash flooding.
A Call for Support
Local shelters are full, and organizations across Texas are calling for donations of clean water, blankets, non-perishable food, and rescue gear. Anyone looking to help is encouraged to contact certified relief organizations rather than heading directly into disaster zones, where conditions remain extremely dangerous.
🙏 Our Thoughts
What should have been a joyful summer memory for hundreds of young girls has turned into an unimaginable nightmare. The strength of the families, the courage of the rescuers, and the support of the community will be critical in the days to come.
We stand with Texas.
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