A summer retreat along the Guadalupe River turned tragic when sudden flash floods hit, killing at least 51 people across Texas. “Few saw \[the flood] coming,” as families and campers were swept away within minutes. Kerr County was hit hardest, with 43 deaths, including 15 children—many from Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ camp where 27 children are still missing.

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick confirmed “about 23 children from Camp Mystic were still unaccounted for” as of Friday. Sheriff Larry Leitha stated, “We will be working around the clock 24/7 until everyone is found.” Rescue teams, including Texas Game Wardens, have reached the site and are actively evacuating survivors.

The flood followed heavy storms that triggered a “flood wave”—a rapid surge down the river, described as moving 25 to 40 mph. Video footage showed water “churning with foam and debris” as it slammed through Center Point.

Some victims have been identified: Renee Smajstrla, Sarah Marsh, Lila Bonner, and Janie Hunt—all lost at Camp Mystic. A family of four and an elderly couple, Joni and Robert Brake, are also among the missing or confirmed dead. Their stories highlight how quickly the disaster unfolded, with one grandson recalling, “Cabins had been completely washed away” in just seven minutes.