Texas Flash Flood Horror: 5 Young Girls Dead, 11 Still Missing After Camp Mystic Tragedy
A devastating flash flood swept through Camp Mystic in Kerr County, Texas, killing at least five young girls and leaving 11 more children missing in what officials are calling one of the worst natural disasters the area has seen in decades.
The tragedy struck in the early hours of July 4, when the Guadalupe River rose more than 26 feet in just 45 minutes, unleashing a torrent of water across the scenic campgrounds. The youngest campers, housed in low-lying cabins just 225 feet from the river, were hit first.
Eight-year-olds Renee Smajstrla, Sarah Marsh, and Eloise Peck were confirmed among the dead, alongside nine-year-olds Janie Hunt and Lila Bonner. The camp’s beloved 70-year-old director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, also lost his life while trying to rescue the girls.
"The Camp Was Completely Destroyed"
Survivor Elinor Lester, 13, described the terrifying scene to ABC7: “A helicopter landed and started taking people away. It was really scary.”
The storm caught families and camp staff off guard. Despite forecasts calling for only "moderate" rain, the National Weather Service didn’t escalate its alert to a Flash Flood Emergency until 4:30am — by then, the water had already overwhelmed the camp.
Questions Over FEMA Funding and Warnings
Criticism is growing over delayed warnings and the FEMA budget cuts made under the Trump administration, which some say weakened emergency response capabilities in the region.
Residents are demanding answers. “Why weren’t we warned sooner?” asked Hunt resident Robert Modgling, who found the body of a girl pinned against a tree by floodwaters. “I’ve got a daughter who’s about that age. It’s horrible.”
Nation Mourns, Leaders Respond
Ivanka Trump expressed heartbreak, saying, “As a mother, my soul aches.” Barack Obama also weighed in, calling the disaster “absolutely heartbreaking” and thanking first responders for their bravery.
With flood watches still in place and more rain predicted, emergency crews continue to search for the missing, hoping to bring closure to grieving families.
This article covers a developing tragedy. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected. For disaster support resources, visit the official American Red Cross or National VOAD.
