The flash flooding deluged summer camps in Kerr County, dotted along the Guadalupe River, and also left families in Burnet, Kendall, Tom Green, Travis and Williamson Counties looking for family members swept away in the floodwaters.
Kerr County officials said at least 107 people died in flash flooding over the Fourth of July weekend — 37 of whom are children. Three others remain missing.
Camp Mystic is a nearly century-old all-girls Christian camp on the banks of the Guadalupe River. The camp has been run by couple Dick and Tweety Eastland since they purchased it in 1974. The grandson of Dick Eastland confirmed on social media his grandfather died “saving the girls that he so loved and cared for.”
In a message posted Monday morning, Camp Mystic said it was grieving the loss of 27 campers and counselors. “Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” the post stated.
Several families across Texas — and in some cases, in other states — have confirmed that their daughters did not survive the historic flooding that deluged the camp.
St. Anne Catholic School in Beaumont confirmed Mary Grace Baker was among those killed at Camp Mystic. “Mary Grace was a bright light in our close-knit school family, known for her kindness and friendship to all, her joyful spirit and her love for her faith and family,” the school posted on Instagram. “Her giggle was contagious, as was her spirit.”
The mother of Anna Margaret Bellows, 8, confirmed to KXAS that her daughter’s body had been recovered.
Lila Bonner‘s family told KXAN, “We ache with all who loved her and are praying endlessly for others to be spared from this tragic loss.”
Molly Dewitt, 9, was one of the Mystic campers who lost her life in the flooding. In her obituary, her family said she “had a heart as expansive as her imagination.”
“From a young age, [Molly] was drawn to those on the margins — refugees, kids who felt different, people without homes. Her instinct was always to notice, to care, and to extend kindness. She gave freely of her time, her heart, and even her belongings, and she taught those around her what it meant to love without hesitation,” her obituary stated.
Lucy Dillon, 8, was among the victims at Camp Mystic. “With her fierce competitiveness, radiant energy and astonishing memory, Lucy tackled every challenge, whether academic or athletic, with heart and spirit,” her family said in an obituary. “She was a force of nature, full of kindness, strength and spark. She was ready for any challenge.”
Nine-year-old Ellen Getten was among those killed at Camp Mystic, according to a statement by Sewanee: The University of the South, where her father previously attended.
The family of Hadley Hanna, 8, confirmed she was among those killed. “While we are deeply moved by the outpouring of support from neighbors, first responders and volunteers, we ask that the media, the public and even well-meaning individuals honor our need for space and quiet during this time,” a statement from the family read.
Virginia Hollis, 8, was a camper in the Twins 2 cabin at Camp Mystic. “Although she was only 8 years old, Virginia already embodied a true Mystic girl: she loved fishing as much as she loved gardening, playing piano as much as painting and the color pink as much as she loved the Astros,” a statement read on a GoFundMe set up by family and friends. “She was a pure, joyful soul who lit up every room. Although her loss has created a hole in our hearts that will never be filled, we know our angel Virginia will be watching over us all from Heaven.”
Janie Hunt was attending Camp Mystic along with several of her cousins, according to a message U.S. Congressman Buddy Carter posted on X. Hunt’s family said about her on social media, “God of grace and comfort, we thank you for our little niece, Janie Hunt and for the place she held in all our hearts.”
Mary Kate Jacobe, 8, was a Camp Mystic camper from Houston and the “baby of her large family.” In a statement from the Jacobe family, they said, “Our precious angel baby has entered the gates of Heaven. Mary Kate Jacobe was the light of our lives. She was tiny but mighty, full of love and joy with a smile that melted your heart.”
Nine-year-old Lainey Landry was also killed in the flooding at Camp Mystic, a Facebook post by St. George Catholic Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, said.
Eight-year-old twins Hanna and Rebecca Lawrence were among the victims at Camp Mystic, their grandfather told NBC News. Their older sister was also at camp, but was safely evacuated. “Hanna and Rebecca gave their [family] so much joy,” the grandfather said. “They and that joy can never be forgotten.”
Kellyanne Lytal passed away in the flood at Camp Mystic on the Fourth of July. Her family created the Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation in her memory. “This fund will support meaningful philanthropic efforts that reflect Kellyanne’s kind spirit and will ensure that her light continues to shine brightly in the world,” her family said in a statement.
The Mayor of the City of Mountain Brook, Alabama, said on Instagram that Sarah Marsh, 8, was a student at Cherokee Bend Elementary. Mayor Welch said, “This is an unimaginable loss for her family, her school and our entire community. Sarah’s passing is a sorrow shared by all of us, and our hearts are with those who knew and loved her.”
Hundreds gathered outside Casis Elementary School on Sunday, July 6, to mourn 8-year-old Austin ISD student Linnie McCown. Her father said on Instagram the Mystic camper, “filled [their] hearts with so much joy we cannot begin to explain.”
Blakely McCrory, 8, was also among those killed at Camp Mystic, her mother confirmed on Facebook. “While we find some comfort in the knowledge that Blakely is happy, safe and secure in the arms of Jesus, we are beyond shattered and will miss her with every breath we take for the rest of our lives.”
Abby Pohl, 8, was named among the victims at Camp Mystic. In an obituary, her family said Abby “had a joyful spirit and contagious smile that captivated everyone around her. From the day she was born, she was a magical life force — small but mighty, warm and radiant, filling every room with energy, laughter and love.”
The family of Wynne Naylor confirmed to KXAS that their daughter was killed. “There are no words to express our gratitude to everyone who supported Wynne and our entire family through this time,” a statement from the family read. “Wynne has a great love of the outdoors, a love of God and love for her community.”
The family of Eloise Peck confirmed she had been found dead. “It is with a heavy heart that I let you know that Eloise Peck has been found and is now an angel,” a statement from the family said.
Margaret Sheedy was also named among the victims, her school confirmed in an Facebook post. “Margaret was immediately a shining light and special gift to all who knew her,” her obituary said. “With bright blue eyes that radiated happiness, Margaret gave so much love and kindness to those around her. She quickly endeared herself to anyone she met, adults and children alike. One of her greatest joys was being a friend — always inclusive, dependable, welcoming and ready to giggle for hours.”
A family member of Renee Smajstrla confirmed she was among the victims, writing on Facebook, “While not the outcome we prayed for, the social media outreach likely assisted the first responders in helping to identify her so quickly.” The family member went on to say, “[Renee] will forever be living her best life at Camp Mystic.”
The family of Mary Stevens, a Mystic camper and student at Highland Park Elementary School in Austin, confirmed on social media that she was among those who did not survive the flooding. “Our family is completely devastated by the loss of our beloved Mary and her dear friends at Camp Mystic,” her family said in a statement. “This is a tragedy that no parent can prepare for. While we are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, we request privacy as we navigate the unimaginable steps ahead. We continue to keep the fellow campers, staff, and families in our prayers — for their rescue and return home.”
The parents of Greta Toranzo shared on Facebook that her daughter was among those killed. “Greta was thrilled to return to Camp Mystic for a third summer this year,” her parents said. “She was overjoyed to be reunited with her camp friends for weeks of fun, laughter, sports and sisterhood.”
At least two Camp Mystic counselor were also killed during the flash floods. Chloe Childress, 19, was a former camper who had become a camp counselor. In a statement, her family said she “lived a beautiful life that saturated those around her with contagious joy, unending grace, and abiding faith.”
Katherine Ferruzzo was a Camp Mystic counselor for the “Bubble Inn” cabin and a recent graduate of Memorial High School. In a statement, her family said she had been accepted to The University of Texas at Austin this fall and planned to become a special education teacher. Her family said they will start the Katherine Ferruzzo Legacy Foundation to honor her compassion for those with special needs and learning differences.
In a statement, Ferruzzo’s family said, “Katherine has a fierce and loving spirit, and we have no doubt she did all she could to save the lives of the girls in her cabin.”
The family of Joyce-Catherine Badon, 21, confirmed she was among those killed in the Kerr County floods. The senior at Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia, was in Hunt, Texas, with friends when the flood washed away their cars. “God showed us the way we should go this morning!” her mother wrote on Facebook. “We found our lovely daughter who blessed us for 21 years! We pray to be able to find her three friends soon.”
Joni and Robert Brake Sr., were in their RV at HTR TX Hill County Campground in Ingram when the floods came. Brake Sr. was an Air Force veteran, and their son described his parents as “patriots through and through.”
Beth and Hutch Bryan were among those killed in Kerr County, the Kinkaid School, Beth’s alma mater, confirmed on Facebook. An obituary for Beth said they were in Hunt when the floods hit. “Beth’s heart was always with her family,” her obituary said. “She embraced motherhood with joy and grace, raising their two children… with unwavering devotion. Her warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone she met.”
John and Julia Burgess were camping at the HTR TX Hill Country Campground in Ingram with their children when the flash floods hit. Family members said John and Julia died in the Kerr County flooding. Their two young sons, 5-year-old John “Jack” and 21-month-old James, were also killed, while their 8-year-old daughter survived.
Ella Cahill, 21, was a student and fitness student coordinator at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her family confirmed on Facebook that she died during the flash floods over the Fourth of July weekend. “We’re heartbroken,” her sister said about Ella’s passing on Facebook. UTSA Campus Recreation said about Ella on Instagram, “Her approachable, encouraging nature helped create a positive and welcoming environment where everyone felt seen and supported.”
Cody and Michelle Crossland were among a group of people from Midland, Texas, camping at HTR TX Campground in Ingram. Around 4 a.m. on July 4, the group awoke, fled their tents and ran for their vehicles, but were swept away, our affiliate in Midland, KMID, reported. The Crosslands and two others in the group were later found dead while another remains missing. A sixth member of the group survived, after being swept 12 miles down-river.
The family of Josephine and Richard Dunlap, of Andrews, Texas, confirmed they were among the victims in Kerr County, our affiliate in Midland, KMID, reported.
The University of Texas at San Antonio community was also touched by the tragedy. Katheryn Eads, a senior lecturer of psychology at UTSA, was among those killed. “Dr. Eads was an extraordinary educator whose devotion to her students and to the craft of teaching embodied the very best of our academic community,” Heather Shipley, UTSA provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said. “Through her insight, expertise and unwavering commitment to student success, she inspired generations of learners and colleagues alike. Her absence leaves a profound void at UTSA, but her impact will continue to resonate through the lives she touched.”
St. Rita Catholic School in Dallas told its community that two sisters who attended the school, rising sixth grader Brooke Harber and rising eighth grader Blair Harber, were among the children whom first responders were searching for. NBC News reported that in a detailed statement posted to GoFundMe, the girls’ aunt said their bodies were found 15 miles away from the family’s vacation rental in Hunt. “When they were found, their hands were locked together,” she told NBC.
Alyson Crouch Hardin and her daughter, Josephine Hardin, were among those killed in the flooding. Sewanee: The University of the South, where they both previously attended, said in a statement that Alyson’s husband — Josephine’s dad — was rescued by helicopter after clinging to a tree for hours.
Aidan Heartfield, a marketing major at Trinity University, was also among the victims in Kerr County, the university said in a statement. “Aidan was a cherished member of our campus community. He was bright, kind, and full of promise,” Trinity President Vanessa Beasley said. “We mourn alongside his family, friends, classmates, and professors, and we extend our deepest condolences to all who are grieving his loss.”
Family members said Melissa and Rob Kamin were among those killed in Kerr County. In a Facebook post, Melissa’s cousin said they “made an amazing impact on so many peoples’ lives. They will never be forgotten, and their memory will live on through the love they shared with so many.”
The Montgomery County Judge said Claire “Reese” Manchaca was with three of her friends at a cabin near Hunt when they were swept away during the flood. Manchaca was a graduate of Caney Creek High School in Conroe, Texas, and was a student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, according to the CCHS student paper. “Reese is now with God. Thank you all who have sent prayers up for our family,” Manchaca’s cousin said on Facebook.
Bailey Martin was a police officer in Odessa, Texas. Our affiliate in Midland, KMID, reported that Martin, his girlfriend, Jayda Floyd, his father, Bobby Martin, and his stepmother, Amanda Martin, were visiting a campground in Kerrville to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend when their RV was swept away in the flash floods. The Odessa Police Department later confirmed Martin was found dead.
“We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time, as they have not only lost Bailey but also several other family members,” Odessa Police Department officials said. “Our prayers go out to them, and to everyone affected by this devastating natural disaster.”
Floyd graduated from the University of Texas Permian Basin with a psychology degree and worked for Ector County as a juvenile probation officer. “Jayda was immensely loved and admired by Ector County staff, and we are sending our deepest condolences to her family and friends,” Ector County Judge Dustin Fawcett said. “We continue to pray for comfort and guidance in times of mourning and unimaginable grief for so many.”
José Olvera and his wife, Alicia Torres, both in their 70s, were swept away in floodwaters in Hunt, a neighbor told NBC News. Volunteers believe they were holding hands when they were swept away, the neighbor said.
Twenty-month-old Clay Parisher was among those killed in the flooding, according to a statement by Sewanee: The University of the South, where his grandmother previously attended.
Brad Perry, a former firefighter with the League City Volunteer Fire Department, was found dead after being missing for several days, KPRC reported. Perry and his wife were camping when floodwaters rose. His wife was found safe.
Another summer camp located along the Guadalupe River, Heart O’ the Hills, announced that the camp’s longtime co-owner, Jane Ragsdale, lost her life during the devastating flooding in the Hill Country. Camp officials said Jane “embodied the spirit of Heart O’ the Hills and was exactly the type of strong, joyful woman that the camp aimed to develop.”
Joel, Kyndall and Tasha Ramos were among a group of people from Midland, Texas, camping at HTR TX Campground in Ingram. Around 4 a.m. on July 4, the group awoke, fled their tents and ran for their vehicles, but were swept away, our affiliate in Midland, KMID, reported. They, and two others in the group, were later found dead. A sixth member of the group survived, after being swept 12 miles down-river.
Julian Ryan and his young family woke up to water rushing into their home. In a detailed account posted to GoFundMe, his family said Julian died while trying to save his wife, mother and children from the flood waters. “I love you, Julian,” his sister said in a Facebook post. “It shouldn’t have took you to pass away for you to get recognition, but you made it and the world is gonna know how good of a man you were.”
Mollie Schaffer, 76, was staying in Hunt with her husband when the floodwaters rose. They tried to escape the rising water, but their car became inundated, her husband said in a Facebook post. Mollie was swept into the river and recovered two days later. “Mollie died in a manner consistent with how she lived — selflessly taking care of someone else before she took care of herself,” her husband said. “She wouldn’t leave the car until she was sure that I had done so. She saved my life. It wasn’t my day to die. I wish that it hadn’t been hers.” Mollie and her husband had been together for 58 years.
The family of Shon Scott, of Andrews, Texas, confirmed that he was among the victims in Kerr County, our affiliate in Midland, KMID, reported.
Amber and Jeff Wilson, and their son, Shiloh Wilson, were camping in the Kerrville area when the floods started, a family member said on Facebook. All three were later recovered. Jeff was a long-time teacher in Humble ISD, the district said. He worked at both Humble High School and Kingwood Park High School. “He was beloved teacher and co-worker to many and will be deeply missed,” the district said in a statement on X.
Kerrville Independent School District is also mourning the loss of a beloved soccer coach and a former teacher. District officials said on Facebook that Reece Zunker and his wife, Paula Zunker, lost their lives in the flood.
The district said Paula “left a lasting mark on the community” and said Reece’s “unwavering dedication […] will never be forgotten.”
The Zunkers’ two children, Lyle and Holland, are still missing, according to the district’s post.
Travis County officials said nine people died after the “extremely deadly and destructive” flooding in Travis County over the Fourth of July weekend. A tenth person recovered was swept downstream from Burnet County.
Dan, 67, and Virginia Dailey, 66, were longtime residents of the Sandy Creek neighborhood. Virginia was posting on social media about the flooding in Kerrville shortly before the waters outside her own home began to rise.
“They’re important in our lives,” their son Wesley Dailey said about his parents. “They have grandkids. They’ve fought through medical issues. But they weren’t ready to go.”
Braxton Jarmon was set to begin his Sophomore year at Glenn High School.
(Courtesy Glenn Band Boosters)
The Glenn High School Grizzly Band and Leander ISD Trustee Anna Smith posted on Facebook that incoming sophomore Braxton Jarmon lost his life during the floods. Braxton’s sister, Felicity Jarmon, and their stepmother, Alissa Martin, were also killed.
“We could not have imagined this tragedy happening to our family. He’s our baby boy,” Jarmon’s sister said in a post on Facebook.
The Travis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed August Panning, 50, Gary Alton Traugott, 60, Betty Massey West, 84, and George “Doug” West, 54, were also killed.
Three people were killed in Williamson County, officials said.
In a social media post, Hope House, a home for children with disabilities, said their coworker Sherry Richardson, 64, was among those killed.
“Sherry was more than a coworker — she was a dear friend to so many in our staff,” the statement read. “She loved our residents dearly and was an invaluable part of our mission. We are deeply grateful to the rescue workers and first responders who worked tirelessly to bring her home.”
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office also recovered the body of Kaitlyn Swallow, 22, of Liberty Hill.
Emergency management officials in Burnet County said five people were killed in the flash flooding that hit their county. Among them were Malaya Hammond, 17, Preston Prince, 22, and Walter Reed, 79. Hammond was swept downstream and later recovered in Travis County.
The son of William “Govani” Venus, 57, confirmed to KXAN’s Kevin Baskar that his father was among those killed. In a Facebook post, his son said Venus was a 33-year retired CSM Army veteran who had been deployed five times.
Earnest Brizendine, 85, was also killed in the flooding when water damaged Pafford Place, an assisted living center where he lived. Brizendine, who went by “Mr Lee” had moved in about eight weeks earlier.
“After we lost him, his family has come to me and said, ‘I haven’t seen him that happy in many many years,'” Heather Cokendolpher, owner of Pafford Place, said. “It gives me a little bit of peace that he got some happy days before he moved to heaven.”
One other person remains missing — Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department Chief Michael Phillips, who was swept away during a water rescue.
Flooding in San Angelo on July 4 claimed one life. The body of Tanya Burwick, 62, was found several blocks away from where her vehicle had been found, according to the San Angelo Police Department.
She was an employee at Walmart in San Angelo. In a Facebook post, the store said she was part of their family since they opened in 2015.
“We try not to think about what she was going through in her last minute,” Burwick’s daughter said. “To know that she was scared and alone is what breaks our hearts the most. But we know that she was strong, and she’s now pain-free and with all of our loved ones in heaven.”
We will update this story as new information becomes available. Investigative Intern Elijah Carll, News Intern Sally Edwards and Investigative Producer Dalton Huey contributed to this report.
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