HUNT, TEXAS — Emergency crews are engaged in a large-scale search and rescue mission after a powerful flash flood struck Camp Mystic, a well-known Christian summer camp for girls situated along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
The flood, triggered by intense overnight storms, caused the river to rise more than 22 feet in just half an hour early Friday, unleashing a torrent of water that swept through the campgrounds in what authorities have now deemed a “mass casualty event.”
The catastrophic flooding destroyed cabins, submerged vehicles, and cut off access roads, stranding campers and staff. Camp Mystic was hosting approximately 750 girls, ages 7 to 17, at the time of the disaster. While many have been rescued, officials confirmed Friday afternoon that 23 campers are still missing.
Among those unaccounted for are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, last seen in the camp’s “Bubble Inn” cabin. Other names shared by devastated families include 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, and Linnie McCown.
More than 500 emergency personnel and 18 helicopters have joined the rescue effort, operating under dangerous conditions. Some children have been saved from trees or pulled from flood-swept vehicles. Still, downed communications, washed-out infrastructure, and ongoing rain continue to challenge responders.
“This is a mass casualty event,” said Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Sheriff Larry Leitha of Kerr County has confirmed at least 13 fatalities, with that number expected to rise as teams reach previously inaccessible areas.
The flood knocked out power, water, and internet at Camp Mystic, and its main entrance road was completely destroyed. In a message to parents, camp officials said: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.” But with limited updates, many families are relying on social media to share updates and pleas for help.
The family of Hadley Hanna, a camper from Dallas, confirmed she remains missing. The Lytal family issued a public appeal for help in locating their daughter Kellyanne, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Federal agencies have been mobilized as well. President Donald Trump has reportedly spoken directly with Texas officials and committed full federal support, deploying FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard to assist in rescue and recovery operations.
Senator Ted Cruz posted on social media, writing: “Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic. We’re working closely with state and federal partners to assist.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly confirmed that while some campers have been located, “We are still working to determine the total number of missing. Time is critical.”
Flood alerts remain active throughout Texas Hill Country, with more storms forecasted for the weekend. Officials are strongly urging the public to stay clear of affected areas and to keep emergency lines open.
As families wait for news and responders continue their efforts, the community is united in grief, prayer, and hope for the safe return of the missing girls. Anyone with credible information is asked to contact Kerr County Emergency Management immediately.
