The devastating floods that swept across Texas have taken a deeply personal toll on the Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and his wife Tavia Hunt, who confirmed that a young cousin, Janie, tragically lost her life at Camp Mystic.
“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,” Tavia wrote in a heartfelt post. “How do we trust a God who allows such terrible things — even to children?”
Flash Flood Strikes Historic Camp
The tragedy occurred on July 4, when the Guadalupe River surged up to 30 feet above its normal level during the early morning hours, overwhelming Camp Mystic, a nearly 100-year-old Christian summer camp. According to Governor Greg Abbott, roughly 750 girls were at the camp when the river broke its banks.
Many of the youngest campers were sleeping in riverside cabins — putting them directly in the path of the flood. Among the confirmed dead are 28 children, and at least 10 girls and one counselor from Camp Mystic remain missing.
Rescue Efforts and Emotional Toll
Governor Abbott declared a Day of Prayer across Texas, stating, “It was nothing short of horrific to see what those young children went through.”
Emergency teams, supported by helicopters and advanced drones, have rescued over 850 people. Yet, the death toll stands at 82 statewide, including 68 in Kerr County alone. The beloved camp director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, 70, died trying to save the children.
Faith, Community, and Global Support
Pope Leo XIV and religious leaders from around the world offered prayers. President Donald Trump issued a major disaster declaration and wrote, “Melania and I are praying for the families impacted. GOD BLESS TEXAS.”
Despite the heartache, the community is rallying: volunteers from across the state are delivering food, shelter, and comfort to displaced families. “We’re here for our neighbors,” said Alma Garcia, a volunteer from San Antonio.
In this time of unimaginable loss, the nation mourns with the Hunt family and every family affected. For those seeking to help or donate, please visit RedCross.org or Texas Disaster Relief.
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