HUNT, TX — A large-scale emergency response is underway in Kerr County, Texas, after devastating flash floods swept through Camp Mystic, a historic all-girls Christian summer camp located along the Guadalupe River. The flooding event, which struck in the early hours of July 4, is being called a mass casualty event by officials.
More than 22 feet of floodwater surged through the campgrounds in just 30 minutes, destroying cabins, displacing campers and staff, and leaving multiple individuals missing in one of the worst weather disasters to hit the Texas Hill Country in years.
Dozens Missing After Rapid Flooding
Triggered by intense overnight storms that dumped more than 15 inches of rain, the flash flood caught the camp and surrounding area off-guard. Families have confirmed the names of several missing campers and counselors, and rescue teams continue combing the riverbanks and nearby terrain.
Confirmed Missing Individuals:
Lila Bonner
Eloise Peck
Hadley Hanna
Kellyanne Lytal
Lainey Landry
Janie Hunt
Renee Smajstrla
Cile Steward
Virginia Hollis
Margaret Sheedy
Molly DeWitt
Anna Margaret Bellows
Blakely McCrory
Mary Grace Baker
Linnie McCown
Greta Toranzo
Sarah Marsh
Wynne Naylor
Katherine Ferruzzo (Camp Counselor)
Bella Kate (Camp Counselor)
Camp Director Narrowly Escapes Tragedy
In a dramatic turn, Camp Mystic’s Director Dick Eastland rushed to evacuate the Bubble Inn cabin, fearing it would flood. During the effort, Eastland and five girls were swept away by the raging current. Incredibly, all six were found alive approximately five miles downriver in Hunt, Texas.
Eastland’s quick thinking and brave action are being hailed by families and local authorities, even as the community reels from the wider tragedy.
Search and Rescue Operation in Full Force
The ongoing rescue mission involves hundreds of emergency personnel, including boats, helicopters, and drone units, working tirelessly across the flooded, debris-filled region. With at least 24 confirmed deaths so far across the Texas Hill Country due to the flooding, officials warn that the number could rise.
Authorities are urging the public to stay clear of the Guadalupe River, which remains unstable and dangerous.
A Community United in Grief and Prayer
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Texas and beyond, drawing widespread support, prayers, and offers of help from across the country. Vigils are already being planned by local churches, and counseling services are being arranged for impacted families.
As rescue efforts continue, families of the missing remain gathered in Kerr County—waiting, praying, and hoping for a miracle.
Developing Story
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for real-time updates as more information becomes available regarding recovery efforts, confirmed identities, and memorial arrangements.
Our thoughts are with the families, rescue workers, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.