HUNT, TEXAS — Search and rescue teams are working around the clock after a sudden and deadly flash flood swept through Camp Mystic, a cherished Christian summer camp for girls along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas.
The flooding occurred early Friday morning, when violent overnight storms caused the river to surge over 22 feet in just 30 minutes, overwhelming the camp and turning a tranquil retreat into a disaster zone. Authorities have declared the incident a “mass casualty event.”
The torrent of water destroyed cabins, overwhelmed vehicles, and severed access roads, leaving hundreds stranded. At the time, Camp Mystic was hosting roughly 750 girls, ages 7 to 17. While many have been safely evacuated, officials confirmed Friday afternoon that 23 campers are still missing.
Among those unaccounted for are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, believed to have been inside the “Bubble Inn” cabin. Other names released by anguished 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 first responders and 18 helicopters have been deployed to the area. Crews have rescued children from treetops and vehicles swept away in the floodwaters. Rescue operations remain dangerous due to hazardous terrain, blocked roads, and poor communication.
“This is a mass casualty event,” confirmed Freeman Martin, head of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported 13 confirmed fatalities—a number expected to rise as search teams reach remote areas.
The flood knocked out electricity, clean water, and internet access at the camp. With the main road washed away, many families are unable to get updates. A camp message stated: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified.” But with spotty communication, many parents have turned to social media in desperation.
The Hanna family from Dallas confirmed that their daughter Hadley is still missing, and the Lytal family issued an urgent plea: “If anyone has seen Kellyanne, please let us know. We are heartbroken.”
In response, federal support has been activated. President Donald Trump has pledged full assistance, and both FEMA and the U.S. Coast Guard are involved in search efforts.
Senator Ted Cruz posted online, asking for public prayers: “Please keep Camp Mystic and all those impacted in your thoughts. We are doing everything we can to help.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly noted that while some missing campers have been located, many more are still unaccounted for. “Time is of the essence. We won’t stop until everyone is found.”
With rain forecasted to continue across Texas Hill Country, officials are warning the public to stay away from affected areas and keep emergency channels clear.
As the region reels from this tragedy, communities across Texas are holding vigil—hoping, praying, and waiting for good news. Anyone with information is urged to contact Kerr County Emergency Management without delay.
