HUNT, TEXAS — A large-scale rescue mission is unfolding after a powerful flash flood swept through Camp Mystic, a long-standing Christian summer camp for girls located along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
The flood struck early Friday morning, triggered by a line of severe storms that caused the river to rise over 22 feet in just 30 minutes, transforming the scenic camp into a disaster zone. Officials have labeled the situation a “mass casualty event.”
The raging waters demolished cabins, overturned vehicles, and severed access to the campgrounds. Approximately 750 girls, ages 7 to 17, were at Camp Mystic when the flood hit. While many have been brought to safety, authorities confirmed that 23 campers are still missing as of Friday afternoon.
Among the missing are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, last known to be in the “Bubble Inn” cabin. Families have also named 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 as still unaccounted for.
More than 500 rescue personnel and 18 helicopters are actively involved in the response. Crews have pulled girls from trees and flood-carried vehicles. However, debris, downed power lines, and dangerous floodwaters are slowing progress and limiting communication.
“This is a mass casualty event,” stated Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported that 13 fatalities have been confirmed, with fears that the number may increase as search teams reach areas previously cut off by the flood.
Camp Mystic remains without electricity, water, or internet. The main road into the camp has been washed away, making it extremely difficult for families to receive updates. A message from the camp assured: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.” Nonetheless, in the absence of real-time communication, families have turned to social media for answers.
The Hanna family, whose daughter Hadley is missing, shared a request for prayers and support. The Lytal family issued a heartbreaking message: “Please—if anyone knows anything about Kellyanne, we are desperate for news.”
Federal resources have now been deployed. President Donald Trump has pledged full support to Texas officials, dispatching FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard to aid local responders.
Senator Ted Cruz urged public support in a social media post: “Prayers are needed for Camp Mystic and everyone impacted by this tragedy. We are doing everything possible to help.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said authorities are working tirelessly. “Some of the girls have been located, but many are still missing. Time is critical—we won’t stop searching.”
With additional rain forecast and flood alerts still active across the Texas Hill Country, officials are urging the public to steer clear of affected zones and keep emergency communication lines open.
As the community rallies around those impacted, hope remains that more of the missing will be found alive. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact Kerr County Emergency Management immediately.
