HUNT, TEXAS — A fierce flash flood early Friday morning has left 23 campers missing at Camp Mystic, a longstanding Christian summer camp for girls situated along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
Fueled by severe overnight storms, the river surged over 22 feet in just 30 minutes, overwhelming the campgrounds and leading officials to declare the crisis a “mass casualty event.”
At the time, approximately 750 girls, ages 7 to 17, were staying at the camp. The rapidly rising water destroyed cabins, swept away vehicles, and obliterated the camp’s main access road, cutting off escape and making rescue efforts difficult.
While hundreds of girls have been evacuated safely, 23 remain unaccounted for as of Friday afternoon. Among those missing are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, who were last seen inside the “Bubble Inn” cabin.
Families have also identified additional missing girls, including 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 first responders and 18 helicopters have been deployed to the scene. Rescuers have pulled girls from trees and flood-stranded vehicles, though efforts are being hampered by hazardous flood conditions, widespread debris, and destroyed infrastructure.
The camp has lost power, running water, and internet access, making communication extremely difficult. Camp officials have stated that families of missing girls have been directly contacted, though many are still turning to social media in desperation for updates.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha has confirmed 13 fatalities, and authorities warn that the death toll could rise as crews reach more isolated parts of the area. Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, reinforced the seriousness of the unfolding emergency.
In response, President Donald Trump has pledged full federal support, sending in FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard to assist in search and recovery. Senator Ted Cruz urged Americans to pray for the victims and confirmed that all available resources are being committed.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly summed up the urgency: “We’ve located some campers, but many are still missing. Every second counts.”
With more severe weather expected and flood warnings still in effect across the Texas Hill Country, officials are urging the public to avoid the area. Anyone with information should contact Kerr County Emergency Management immediately.
