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At least 67 killed, including 21 children, in devastating Texas flood; 11 girls still missing – rescue efforts ongoing
[Kerrville, Texas | July 7, 2025]
The death toll from a sudden and devastating flood in central Texas has risen to 67. Among the confirmed casualties are 15 children and 12 teenage girls. An additional 27 girls—most of them from a local Christian summer camp—are still missing.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said,
"We will leave no one behind. Rescue operations will continue until the last person is found."
The “Camp Mystic” Tragedy: 11 Girls and One Counselor Missing
The tragedy centers around “Camp Mystic,” a Christian summer retreat where 11 teenage girls and a female counselor went missing during the flood. When parents were allowed to visit the camp on Sunday morning, heartbreaking scenes unfolded—relatives wept by the riverbank.
In one emotional moment, a teenage girl and her mother stood silently in a soaked, devastated cabin before breaking down in tears and embracing each other.
A Humanitarian Battle Amid Harsh Terrain
Rescue teams have been navigating fallen trees, overturned vehicles, and muddy wreckage to search for survivors. Using helicopters, boats, and drones, more than 850 people have been rescued alive so far.
However, the total number of missing remains unclear. The flood has severed roads and communication lines, especially around various camps in the region.
Parents Question Lack of Timely Warning
Families affected by the flood have expressed anger over the apparent lack of adequate warnings, despite forecasts predicting extreme flooding.
Within just 45 minutes early Friday morning, the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet, sweeping away homes and vehicles.
Although the National Weather Service had issued prior warnings, local preparedness and emergency response were reportedly insufficient.
'Flash Flood Alley' Strikes Again
The disaster occurred in the hill country area known as “Flash Flood Alley,” home to century-old summer camps. Many of these camps were packed with children celebrating the Fourth of July weekend, raising fears that the casualty count could rise further.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared Sunday as a “Day of Prayer,” urging:
“Every Texan should pray—for the souls of the departed and for the safe return of the missing.”
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV in Rome offered his condolences during evening prayers:
“I send my heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims—especially the children lost in the Guadalupe River flood.”
Death Toll by County:
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Kerr County: 59 deaths (including 21 children)
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Travis County: 4 deaths
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Burnet County: 3 deaths
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Kendall County: 1 death
Survivors have recounted how they clung to tree branches or climbed rooftops to escape the rising waters. Girls in one cabin reportedly crossed a bridge holding onto a rope, while others climbed into attics for safety.
One parent shared,
“My daughter lost her shoe crossing the river, but she never let go of the rope. All I pray now is that those brave girls return.”
Political Response and Accountability Questions
Congressman Chip Roy of the affected district stated:
“This is not the time for blame. Right now, we must unite in rescue and relief efforts.”
