TEXAS HILL COUNTRY (July 5, 2025) — Tragedy struck the Texas Hill Country over the Fourth of July holiday as torrential rains triggered historic flash flooding, leaving entire communities devastated and prompting a massive emergency response effort. As of Friday evening, 27 people have been confirmed dead, and dozens more remain missing — including young girls from Camp Mystic, a historic summer camp near Hunt, Texas.
The Guadalupe River surged by 26 to 30 feet in under an hour, marking one of the highest recorded rises in its history. Cabins were swept away, power was lost, and roads were submerged, cutting off access in multiple directions and halting evacuations.
💔 Camp Mystic Tragedy: Dozens of Girls Still Missing
More than 750 campers were attending Camp Mystic when flash floodwaters suddenly tore through the area on July 4. Many young girls remain unaccounted for, and families are urgently seeking answers. Rescue teams have confirmed the recovery of Renee Smajstrla and Janie Hunt, while the following children are still missing:
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Virginia Hollis
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Mary Grace Baker
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Blakely McCoy
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Hadley Hanna
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Lainey Landry
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Eloise Peck
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Lila Bonner
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Molly Dewitt
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Linnie McCown
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Margaret Sheedy
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Kellyanne Lytal
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Wynne Naylor Dallas
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Cile Steward
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Anna Margaret Bellows
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Greta Toranzo
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Sarah Marsh
📱 If you recognize any of these children or have information, please contact the phone numbers listed with their images or notify authorities immediately.
⚠️ Flash Flood Emergency and River Surges
Comal County officials issued a flash flood emergency along River Road, which hugs the Guadalupe River between Sattler/Canyon Lake and Gruene. Sheriff Mark Reynolds said evacuation became impossible after the road flooded and became impassable in both directions due to downed power lines and debris. Deputies were ordered to seek high ground and abandon vehicles if necessary.
The Guadalupe River in New Braunfels has also exceeded flood stage. The National Weather Service forecasts the river will crest around 13.6 feet, with moderate flooding expected and additional rain forecasted through the weekend.
🆘 Reunification Centers
To assist families and those impacted:
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Campers: Ingram Elementary School, 125 Brave Run W, Ingram, TX 78025
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Non-Campers: Arcadia Live Theater, 717 Water St, Kerrville, TX 78028
📞 To locate a loved one, call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.
🏠 Shelter Locations in Kerrville
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Medical Shelter: First United Methodist Church, 321 Thompson Drive
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Congregate Shelter: Calvary Temple Church, 3000 Loop 534
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Notre Dame Catholic Church: 929 Main Street
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Schreiner University Event Center: 2100 Memorial Boulevard
🧼 Donations & Needed Supplies
📍 Ingram Elementary is now accepting donations (but not serving as a shelter).
✅ Current Supply Needs:
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Cleaning products: bleach, vinegar, mops, gloves, buckets
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First Aid items: bandages, antiseptics
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Hygiene: diapers, wipes, toilet paper, towels
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Linens: sheets, pillows, pillowcases
🚫 No more bottled water is needed at this time.
🍽️ Non-perishable food can be dropped off at the cafeteria.
📍 Food, clothing, water & more can also be dropped off at:
Cross Kingdom Church, 3044 Junction Highway, Kerrville, TX
❤️ How to Help
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Kerr County Flood Relief Fund:
Organized by The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country to support rescue and recovery.
🔗 Donate here -
Project MEND:
Donating wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, and hospital beds to those impacted.
🔗 ProjectMEND.org | 📞 210-429-4057 -
Disaster Mental Health Help:
Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for free emotional support.
🙌 Businesses Stepping Up
H-E-B:
“Kerrville is where we began. We are deeply saddened and actively working with the Red Cross, local officials, and first responders to support the community,” said H-E-B in a statement.
James Avery Jewelry (based in Kerrville):
“Our hearts are heavy. Our loved ones, neighbors, and colleagues are hurting. We are working on ways to support the community that means so much to us.”
Whataburger:
Feeding first responders in Kerrville and collaborating with nonprofits for disaster relief.
📍 Unit 1312 at I-10 and Sidney Baker Street is open to serve first responders.
🚧 Road Closures & Safety Updates
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The Gruene Bridge is closed. Access to Gruene is available via Hwy 306 through Hunter Rd.
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Please stay out of flood zones to allow emergency crews to work safely.
🎶 Event Changes – Luckenbach, TX
Due to the tragedy, the Pat Green, Cory Morrow & Dawn & Hawkes concert has been rescheduled to August 16, 2025.
🎟 All tickets will be honored.
❤️ “Our prayers go out to all affected,” shared the Luckenbach team.
🎶 A free dancehall show with Dawn & Hawkes will still take place July 6, from 6–9 PM.
🌍 Global Attention and Continued Coverage
Major global news outlets including BBC, CNN, FOX, CBS, ABC, and NBC are covering this unfolding tragedy, helping bring attention and support to the Texas Hill Country during this heartbreaking time.
Texas strong and resilient community. As we continue search and rescue efforts, mourn those lost, and pray for those still missing, let us stand together in love, action, and unwavering hope. Every donation, every shared post, and every prayer brings us one step closer to healing.