Texas Flood Death Toll Hits 105 as Search for Camp Mystic Victims Continues

Officials confirmed Tuesday that the death toll from the devastating flash floods that struck Central Texas on the Fourth of July has climbed to at least 105, with Kerr County experiencing the most significant losses. 

Tragically, 28 children were among the victims, with many being swept away during their time at Camp Mystic, a historic all-girls summer camp situated along the Guadalupe River. As recovery efforts continue into their fifth day, ten campers and one counselor from the camp are still unaccounted for.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha announced that there were 84 fatalities in his area, comprising 56 adults and 28 children. Authorities reported that 22 adults and 10 children remain unidentified. Confirmed fatalities have been reported in Travis (7), Burnet (5), Kendall (6), Williamson (2), and Tom Green (1) counties. 

A sudden and intense storm led to dramatic flooding, causing the Guadalupe River to surge 26 feet in merely 45 minutes, leaving many unprepared in the early morning hours.

Authorities at both the local and state levels have issued alerts indicating that the number of fatalities may increase as search teams persist in their efforts to navigate through the wreckage and flooded areas. “We continue to hold onto hope with each foot, each mile, and every twist of the river,” stated Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring. He described the situation as tragic and encouraged families to brace themselves for a challenging week ahead.

During a press briefing in Kerr County, Texas, Senator Ted Cruz characterized the event as “every parent’s nightmare.” He recognized that, looking back, an earlier evacuation of low-lying camps, such as Mystic, could have potentially saved lives. “If we had the chance to revisit our decisions, we would relocate them to safer areas,” Cruz stated, emphasizing the importance of unity over political finger-pointing amid the current situation.

Officials from Camp Mystic have issued a statement confirming the loss of 27 campers and counselors, describing the tragedy as “unimaginable.” Relatives of those unaccounted for are holding onto hope as search teams, supported by helicopters, drones, and specialized dogs, persist in their efforts.

Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice highlighted the rapid onset and erratic nature of the flood. “Several of the initial responders were being carried away as they were attending to the situation,” he stated. 

Residents are urged to lend their support to relief initiatives through reputable organizations such as the Salvation Army, as Texas faces one of the most devastating natural disasters it has experienced in recent times.

‍