A devastating flash flood struck Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls’ summer camp in Hunt, Texas, on July 4th, killing at least five girls and leaving eleven more missing. The flood was part of a larger disaster along the Guadalupe River that killed 69 people, including 21 children. Camp Director Richard “Dick” Eastland, 70, died while trying to rescue campers as the river surged 30 feet above normal.
Among the young victims were Renee Smajstrla, 8, Janie Hunt, 9, Sarah Marsh, 8, Lila Bonner, 9, and Eloise Peck, 8. These girls had been enjoying typical summer activities just days before the tragedy. Their families expressed deep grief and shared touching memories, with several noting the joy and friendships the children found at Camp Mystic.
Tragically, other children also died outside the camp. Sisters Blair, 13, and Brooke Harber, 11, were swept away while staying with grandparents near the river. Their parents survived, but the loss has deeply affected their school and church community. Father Joshua Whitfield praised their joy and light, urging prayers and compassion in response to the tragedy.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with at least eleven girls from Camp Mystic still missing. Families have turned to social media to search for their loved ones. Some of the missing include Kellyanne Lytal, Lainey Landry, and Joyce Badon with her friends Aiden Heartfield, Reese Manchaca, and Ella Cahill. One camp counselor is also unaccounted for.
President Trump issued a major disaster declaration for Texas amid criticism of federal disaster response cuts. Rescue efforts have saved over 850 lives, but the emotional toll and loss remain staggering.
