On Sunday, authorities confirmed that at least 59 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to the catastrophic Fourth of July floods along the Guadalupe River, as reported by Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha. The heartbreaking count includes 21 children, with dozens more still unaccounted for. Rescue operations are ongoing, with hundreds of survivors already brought to safety.
The day also saw emotional family reunions as busloads of children were transported to downtown Kerrville, where anxious parents had driven all night in hopes of finding their loved ones. Reporters from the Houston Chronicle and other Hearst newsrooms remain on the scene, closely following the search efforts for approximately 27 children missing from Camp Mystic and others affected by the floods.
Camp Mystic Director Richard “Dick” Eastland, who served as a father figure to many campers, tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue others. His son, Richard Eastland Jr., shared with the Washington Post that his father was swept away by the floodwaters while trying to save campers in the Bubble Inn cabin, situated only 150 yards from the river's edge. Over 750 girls were present at the camp when the flooding began, highlighting the magnitude of this disaster.
Eastland’s nephew confirmed his passing via social media, stating that his body was discovered near his vehicle alongside other victims. Former camper Paige Sumner expressed her sorrow in the Kerrville Daily Times, stating that Eastland’s final act was one of selflessness, dedicated to saving the lives of campers.
Among the deceased are Blair and Brooke Harber, two young sisters who perished when the floods struck Kerr County early Friday morning. Their bodies were found holding hands, a poignant symbol of their bond. Their family remains in anguish, waiting for news of other relatives who have yet to be located. “My parents, Mike and Charlene Harber, have not been found as of now,” Jennifer Harber stated, pleading for prayers as they search for their loved ones.
As of now, the total number of fatalities attributed to the Hill Country rains has risen to at least 70. This includes the confirmed deaths in Kerr County, which stand at 59, comprising 21 children and 38 adults. Additional fatalities have been reported in surrounding counties, including Travis, Burnet, Kendall, Tom Green, and Williamson.
In the wake of the disaster, Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced plans to remove a controversial member of the city’s Food Insecurity Board. Sade Perkins faced backlash for her remarks on social media regarding Camp Mystic, describing it as a “whites-only” camp. Whitmire condemned her comments as “deeply inappropriate,” emphasizing the need for sensitivity during this time of grief for affected families.
In a move to aid the victims, President Donald Trump has approved a disaster declaration for Texas, allowing for federal funding to support recovery efforts in Kerr County. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide various forms of assistance, including grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and low-cost loans for uninsured property losses. Affected individuals are encouraged to file claims with their insurance and apply for assistance through FEMA.
Pope Leo XIV offered condolences to the families affected by the floods, expressing sorrow for the loss of lives, particularly those of the young campers. In a tweet, he stated, “We pray for them,” highlighting the widespread grief felt across the nation.
State Highway 39 was closed to all but emergency responders, as traffic congestion was hindering ongoing rescue efforts. Kerrville officials urged the public to stay away from the area to allow rescue teams to operate efficiently. “Straight talk: wanting to go see flood damage is not a good reason to be out and about,” local police emphasized on social media.
The National Weather Service has extended a flood watch until 7 p.m. on Sunday, covering much of the Texas Hill Country and the Interstate 35 corridor. Additional rainfall is expected, raising concerns of further flooding. Kerrville’s city staff continue to collaborate with county and federal authorities to respond to the devastating impacts of the floods, urging community members to donate to local relief efforts.
As rescue operations progress into their third day, Kerrville police are diligently working to locate missing individuals. The community has rallied to support these efforts, with the Salvation Army serving as the primary contact for volunteer coordination. If anyone has information about missing persons, they are encouraged to reach out to local authorities.
In addition to human welfare, organizations like Austin Pets Alive are working to reunite lost pets with their families after the flooding. Those with missing animals can report their situation through established channels, ensuring that pets are cared for during this tumultuous time.
Following the severe flooding, Lake Travis has risen dramatically, exceeding 15 feet over the Fourth of July weekend. The Lower Colorado River Authority is actively managing water levels to mitigate further flooding, as tributaries continue to contribute to the rising lake levels.
In response to the widespread devastation, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a Day of Prayer. He called upon Texans to unite in prayer for those lost, the missing, and the recovery of their communities, emphasizing the resilience and strength of the Texas spirit during these trying times.
Images and videos shared on social media depict the severe destruction caused by the floods, with vehicles overturned and debris scattered across areas like Camp Mystic. As rescue efforts continue, the community remains hopeful for the safe return of the missing individuals.
