Devastating Flood Claims Lives at Texas Summer Camp
Three young girls tragically lost their lives as severe flooding struck Camp Mystic, a private Christian camp for girls located in Hunt, Texas.
Anne Hunt informed Fox News Digital that her daughter, Janie, was among the campers who perished in the calamity. The nonprofit organization A Voice for the Voiceless also confirmed the death of Renee Smajstrla, another camper. A third victim has been identified, but her family requested that her identity remain undisclosed.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported on Friday evening that as many as 25 campers were unaccounted for at the time. The camp had around 750 participants when the flood occurred.
By Saturday, authorities announced that 27 fatalities had been confirmed as a result of the flooding, including 18 adults and 9 children.
President Donald Trump expressed his condolences through a post on Truth Social, revealing that federal, state, and local agencies were collaborating on the response. He stated, “Melania and I are praying for all of the families impacted by this horrible tragedy. Our brave first responders are on site doing what they do best. God bless the families, and God bless Texas!”
Families gathered at multiple local centers, anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office identified several locations including Ingram Elementary School and The Arcadia Live Theater in Kerrville as designated reunification spots.
Camp Mystic had informed parents that if they had not received direct communication, it meant their child was accounted for. Ellen Toranzo reported to Fox News Digital that her daughter, Greta, was missing, and Carrie Hanna confirmed that her daughter, Hadley, was also unlocated.
According to 13-year-old Elinor Lester, evacuation was carried out via helicopter after she and her cabinmates navigated floodwaters. Lester noted that the camp facilities suffered extensive damage. She added that younger campers were placed in lower areas by the river, making them the first victims of the flood.
The National Guard was activated in response to the heavy rains that caused the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically in a short span. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicated that U.S. Coast Guard personnel were also sent to assist with the evacuations.
Helicopters and military vehicles facilitated the evacuation efforts, and by Friday evening, 237 individuals had been rescued, including 167 via airlift.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported the deployment of over 1,000 state responders and 800 vehicles for rescue operations across 15 counties, with the possibility of adding more regions as needed. He emphasized the importance of community support during this crisis, stating, “This is a time when we, as a state, need God more than ever.”
Vice President JD Vance extended his sympathies on X, expressing heartbreak for the victims and their families. He featured a prayer for the deceased, highlighting their reverential faith.
The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with missing relatives to contact the Red Cross for assistance.
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