HUNT, TEXAS — An urgent rescue mission is underway after a sudden and violent flash flood overwhelmed Camp Mystic, a well-known Christian summer camp for girls along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
The floodwaters surged over 22 feet in just 30 minutes early Friday morning following intense storms, leaving devastation in their wake. Authorities are calling the crisis a “mass casualty event.”
The deluge destroyed cabins, submerged cars, and washed out critical roads, leaving hundreds stranded. At the time of the disaster, approximately 750 girls, ranging in age from 7 to 17, were attending the camp. While many have since 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 “Bubble Inn” cabin. Additional names shared 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.
More than 500 emergency responders and 18 helicopters have been deployed in the rescue effort. Teams have saved campers from trees and stranded vehicles, but treacherous conditions, ongoing flooding, and limited access continue to challenge operations.
“This is a mass casualty event,” stated Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed 13 fatalities so far, adding that the death toll could rise as crews reach previously inaccessible parts of the camp.
Camp Mystic is currently without power, water, or internet, and the main road leading to the site has been washed away. Communication with families has been sporadic. In a statement, the camp said: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.” Still, many families are left searching for answers, turning to social media for any glimmer of news.
The Hanna family from Dallas said their daughter Hadley remains missing. The Lytal family released a heartbreaking message: “If you know anything about Kellyanne, please contact us. We are praying and hoping for her return.”
Federal assistance has been mobilized. President Donald Trump has pledged full support to Texas, authorizing deployment of FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard to aid in the effort.
Senator Ted Cruz posted online: “Please join me in praying for Camp Mystic and all those affected. Every available resource is being used to help.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly stressed the urgency of the mission: “We’re doing all we can. While some girls have been found, others remain missing. Time is of the essence.”
With more storms looming and flood advisories still active across the Texas Hill Country, officials are urging residents to avoid the area and keep emergency lines open.
As communities across Texas stand together in support, hope remains that more children will be brought safely home. Anyone with information should contact Kerr County Emergency Management without delay.
