An outpouring of grief continues across Texas after flash floods devastated parts of Kerr County, claiming dozens of lives and leaving many more still unaccounted for. Among the hardest-hit areas was Camp Mystic — a nearly century-old Christian summer camp for girls — where at least 27 campers and staff members are confirmed to have died following a sudden surge in the Guadalupe River.
Late on Sunday, officials confirmed the overall death toll from the floods had reached 82, with search and rescue operations still underway. Authorities have warned that the number may continue to rise as more areas are assessed.
Tragic losses from the floods have rippled across the nation, including the family of Kansas City Chiefs owner and CEO Clark Hunt. One of the victims was 9-year-old Janie Hunt, a young relative of the Hunt family, who had been attending Camp Mystic at the time of the disaster.
Her mother confirmed the heartbreaking news to CNN, saying simply, “We are just devastated.”
Tavia Hunt, wife of Clark Hunt, expressed her sorrow in a deeply personal message shared on Instagram: “Our hearts are broken by the devastation from the floods in Wimberley and the tragic loss of so many lives — including a precious little Hunt cousin, along with several friend’s little girls.”
She continued by reflecting on the spiritual struggle in moments of such intense grief: “How do we trust a God who is supposed to be good, all knowing and all powerful, but who allows such terrible things to happen — even to children? That is a sacred and tender question — and one the Bible doesn’t shy away from.”
Faith, grief, and a community in mourning
Camp Mystic, established in 1926, is known for offering young girls a place to build confidence, independence, and community through faith-based programming. When the floods struck, more than 750 girls were staying at the camp.
In a statement posted to its website on July 7, the camp wrote: “Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy.”
As of the latest reports, 10 girls and one counselor remain missing. Other confirmed victims from the camp include 8-year-olds Renee Smajstrla, Sarah Marsha, and Eloise Peck, as well as 9-year-old Lila Bonner.
Lila’s family, speaking briefly to NBC News, said: “In the midst of our unimaginable grief, we ask for privacy and are unable to confirm any details at this time. We ache with all who loved her and are praying endlessly for others to be spared from this tragic loss.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed condolences and pledged ongoing support for search and recovery efforts. Local communities across the state have come together in vigils, prayer gatherings, and aid donations as the full scope of the disaster unfolds.
