Tragedy in Texas: 23 Girls Still Missing After Catastrophic Floods Sweep Through Christian Summer Camp
The state of Texas continues to grapple with the aftermath of devastating floods that struck earlier this week, and heartbreaking new information has emerged about a group of young girls who remain missing. Families, emergency responders, and local officials are now locked in a desperate race against time.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed that 23 girls have not yet been located following the massive flooding along the Guadalupe River. These girls were among the 750 attendees at Camp Mystic — a well-known Christian summer camp for girls located near the river’s edge in Kerr County.
A Community Holding Its Breath
The camp, which has operated for decades as a place of faith, outdoor recreation, and personal growth for young girls, was hit without warning as flash flooding transformed the peaceful river into a deadly torrent. Dozens of cabins and facilities were damaged or swept away entirely as the water surged across the property.
Many parents and relatives rushed to the scene as news of the disaster broke. Now, days later, several families are still clinging to hope as search-and-rescue teams continue combing through debris and flooded areas by boat, drone, and helicopter.
“We just want them back. We want to know they’re safe,” said a tearful mother speaking to a local news station. Her 12-year-old daughter, Olivia, had been attending Camp Mystic for the third summer in a row.
Search Efforts Intensify as Weather Threatens Progress
Rescue operations are being hampered by ongoing rainfall and hazardous conditions. Mudslides, downed trees, and submerged roads have made certain parts of the camp and surrounding wilderness extremely difficult to access.
Texas Department of Public Safety officials say that while dozens of girls have already been rescued or located, the search for the remaining 23 is critical. Time is of the essence, and the area remains under a severe weather advisory.
“We are throwing everything we have into this operation,” said Lt. Gov. Patrick. “Local volunteers, National Guard, and specialized dive teams are all working tirelessly. Our prayers are with these girls and their families.”
Grief, Support, and an Outpouring of Prayer
Across Texas and beyond, communities have rallied in support. Vigils have been held in multiple cities, and prayer circles continue to form around churches and community centers. Social media has also become a hub for organizing volunteer efforts and sharing updates.
One youth pastor, whose niece is among the missing, described the scene as “the hardest moment of our lives,” but expressed gratitude for the compassion shown by strangers. “People we’ve never met are helping us search. That’s what faith and community look like.”
Looking Forward With Hope
Authorities remain cautiously optimistic as they continue their efforts. Portable shelters have been set up for the families of missing children, and trauma counselors are on site to provide support.
Camp Mystic’s leadership issued a brief statement expressing their devastation and promising full cooperation with ongoing investigations. “Our hearts are shattered,” the statement read. “We are holding onto hope and praying without ceasing.”
This is a developing story. As rescue operations continue, we will provide updates on the status of the missing girls and any confirmed recoveries. In the meantime, families ask the public to share verified information and avoid spreading rumors or unconfirmed reports online.