HUNT, TEXAS — A massive search and rescue operation is underway following a devastating flash flood that tore through Camp Mystic, a well-known Christian summer camp for girls located along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
The catastrophe unfolded early Friday morning when a wave of severe storms caused the river to rise dramatically—more than 22 feet in just 30 minutes—resulting in what authorities are now calling a “mass casualty event.”
The floodwaters, described as historic and deadly, swept away cabins and vehicles, stranding campers and staff alike. Camp Mystic was hosting around 750 girls between the ages of 7 and 17 when the flood hit. Many have since been rescued, but as of Friday afternoon, at least 23 campers remain unaccounted for.
Among the missing are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, who were staying in the “Bubble Inn” cabin at the time of the disaster. Additional names released by 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.
A coordinated rescue response has been launched involving over 500 personnel and 18 helicopters from state and federal agencies. Rescuers have managed to save some children from trees, where they had climbed to escape the rising water, and others from vehicles carried away by the current. Still, treacherous conditions and infrastructure damage are hampering access and communication.
“This is a mass casualty event,” stated Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed that at least 13 fatalities have been reported so far, a number that may rise as search teams gain more ground.
Camp Mystic has been left without power, running water, or internet access. The primary road leading into the facility was washed out, making it nearly impossible for many families to get information about their children. A message sent by camp officials stated: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.”
Heartbroken families are turning to social media for answers and awareness. The family of Hadley Hanna, a camper from Dallas, confirmed she remains missing and asked for prayers. The Lytal family also issued an emotional plea: “Kellyanne Lytal is still unaccounted for. If anyone has any information, please come forward.”
The scale of the response has drawn federal attention. President Donald Trump has reportedly been in direct contact with Texas officials and pledged full federal support, activating the U.S. Coast Guard and FEMA to assist with rescue and recovery.
Senator Ted Cruz took to social media urging for continued prayers and support: “Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic. We are doing everything possible to assist.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly added that while some campers have been located, “we are still working to determine the total number of missing. Time is critical, and we’re doing everything we can.”
Flood warnings remain in effect across much of the Texas Hill Country as more rain is expected over the weekend. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area and keep emergency lines open.
As the community holds its breath, families, neighbors, and the nation continue to hope for the safe return of the missing girls. Please keep them—and the heroic first responders working around the clock—in your thoughts and prayers.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Kerr County Emergency Management immediately.
