HUNT, TEXAS — A large-scale, multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway following a catastrophic flood along the Guadalupe River that swept through Camp Mystic, a renowned all-girls Christian summer camp in Hunt, Texas.
The sudden floodwaters, fueled by severe overnight storms, surged over 22 feet in just 30 minutes early Friday morning, leaving devastation in their wake and sparking what Texas officials are calling a “mass casualty event.”
At the heart of this tragedy are the campers—young girls between the ages of 7 and 17—many of whom remain missing. As of 3:30 p.m., Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick confirmed that at least 23 children are still unaccounted for.
Families have publicly identified several of the missing girls, including Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, who were staying in the “Bubble Inn” cabin when the flood hit. Others still missing 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.
A total of 400–500 first responders, along with 18 helicopters, are actively involved in the search and rescue operation. Some girls have been pulled from trees where they had taken refuge, while others were found in vehicles swept away by the flood. Ground crews and aerial teams continue to comb through debris fields, riverbanks, and tree lines in hopes of finding survivors.
“This is a mass casualty event,” said Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed at least 13 fatalities, cautioning that the number could rise as rescue teams gain access to more areas.
Camp Mystic, home to approximately 750 girls this summer, lost power, water, and internet access in the flooding. With the main access road washed out, communications have been nearly impossible, and rescue efforts face extreme logistical challenges. A statement released by camp officials to parents reads: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.” The message has offered some clarity amid widespread confusion and panic.
Despite some earlier miscommunication, families of the missing girls are pleading for public awareness. One family from Dallas confirmed that their daughter, Hadley Hanna, remains missing. Another, the Lytal family, issued a desperate appeal: “Kellyanne Lytal is still unaccounted for. If you, or someone you know, is in the area, PLEASE keep an eye out for her.”
Texas authorities have mobilized all available resources. The U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, and state agencies are coordinating efforts, while President Donald Trump has reportedly offered full federal support. “We’ve been in direct contact with the White House,” said Lt. Governor Patrick. “President Trump has committed to providing ANYTHING Texas needs.”
Senator Ted Cruz urged prayers and support on social media, writing, “Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly offered a brief update: “We know where some of them are… but we are still working to determine the total number of missing. Time is critical.”
Flood watches and warnings remain in effect for large portions of central Texas, and officials are urging the public to stay away from affected areas and keep phone lines open for emergency communications.
This unfolding tragedy has shaken families across the state and beyond. Communities are rallying in prayer and support, holding onto hope as rescue teams work tirelessly through unimaginable conditions.
Please continue to keep the missing girls, their families, and all first responders in your thoughts and prayers. Anyone with information on missing persons is asked to contact Kerr County Emergency Management immediately.
