On July 4th, severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall along the Guadalupe River has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 13 lives and left approximately 20 children unaccounted for after a summer camp was engulfed by water. Governor Greg Abbott reported that the state had preemptively activated its emergency response resources in anticipation of the flash flooding, and additional support has been deployed to aid in the ongoing recovery efforts.
In a media release, Abbott confirmed that local emergency services are working diligently to respond to the disaster. Reporters from the Houston Chronicle and other Hearst publications have been closely following the rescue operations, providing updates and critical information as events unfold.
As part of the emergency response, a unit from the Houston Fire Department arrived in San Antonio with multiple engines to assist local responders. This group, which includes four engines, is expected to receive specific instructions for their assignments shortly. HFD spokesman Brent Taylor confirmed that the team checked in with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to coordinate their efforts.
In addition to the Houston teams, other fire units from Galveston, Cypress Creek, Montgomery County, and Walker County joined the response. Furthermore, three members of the Houston Fire Department, part of the Texas A&M Task Force One, were dispatched to College Station to prepare for specialized search and rescue operations.
The Houston Fire Chief, Thomas Muñoz, expressed the devastation faced by Central Texas communities, highlighting the importance of mutual assistance among fire departments across the state and beyond.
As the community rallies to support rescue operations, local federal representatives have voiced their concerns. Senator Ted Cruz shared on social media that multiple helicopters are actively engaged in search and rescue missions, with President Trump pledging any necessary support for Texas. Cruz urged prayers for those affected, particularly for the campers at Camp Mystic.
Senator John Cornyn also expressed his sorrow over the “historic flooding” in the area, noting his communication with Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and offering assistance to local officials. U.S. Representative Chip Roy encouraged residents to avoid flood-prone areas, check on neighbors, and stay safe while listing shelters and reunification centers available for those affected.
The missing children from the private Christian summer camp include Greta Toranzo, an elementary student from Houston, and 9-year-old Lainey Landry. The absence of these children has heightened concerns within the community, prompting extensive search efforts. The economic impact of summer camps in the Texas Hill Country is significant, with a reported $32 million contribution to the local economy, underscoring the importance of these camps in the region.
Camp Mystic, where many children were staying, has a reputation for its high fees, with costs exceeding $4,300 per camper. Unfortunately, the flooding has caused extensive damage to several camps, with some announcing delays or cancellations of their final summer sessions.
By 7 p.m. on July 4th, Texas Game Wardens confirmed they had reached Camp Mystic's grounds and began evacuating campers who had been stranded by rising waters. Reunification centers have been established in Kerr County to assist families in locating their loved ones. These centers include:
Arcadia Live Center, 717 Water St., Kerrville Ingram Elementary School, 125 Brave Run W, IngramAdditionally, temporary shelters have been set up at various locations throughout the area, including Calvary Temple Church and Notre Dame Catholic Church, to provide refuge for those affected by the flooding.
The Kerrville Police Department has pledged to continue its search for victims and survivors until all citizens are accounted for. They have expressed gratitude for the community's support and assistance during this devastating time, urging residents to stay off the streets to allow emergency services to operate effectively.
As rescue efforts continue, the community remains hopeful for the safe return of all missing campers. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick assured families that search teams would work around the clock to locate their loved ones, emphasizing the commitment to finding every missing child.
The catastrophic flooding in Kerr County serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and its potential to disrupt lives and communities. The rapid response from local authorities, alongside the support from state and federal resources, demonstrates the resilience of the Texas Hill Country as it navigates this challenging situation.
