Seven Young Lives Lost in Guadalupe River Flood: Texas Mourns Victims of Camp Mystic Tragedy
From July 4 to July 7, record rainfall—spurred by remnants of Tropical Storm Barry—triggered catastrophic flash floods across Central Texas, especially along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County. Incredibly, water levels surged over 26 feet in under an hour, catching many off guard—and in some cases without warning systems in place .
💔 The Loss of Seven Friends & Family
During what should have been a carefree day by the river, seven lives were tragically swept away:
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Renee Smajstrla (8)
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Sarah Marsh (8)
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Janie Hunt (9)
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Sisters Blair (13) & Brooke Harber (11)
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Best friends Eloise Peck (8) & Lila Bonner (9)
All were campers at Camp Mystic, a faith-based summer camp near Hunt, TX. These bright young souls, along with their families and community, were irreparably changed when the floodwaters struck as they slept or laughed together .
🏕️ Camp Mystic Devastation
Camp Mystic—home to nearly 750 campers and staff—was hit especially hard. A mere 20–29 feet water surge smashed through cabins in under 60 minutes. In total, 27 campers and counselors lost their lives, including the beloved Camp director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, who died heroically trying to save others
👥 Broader Toll and Community Involvement
Statewide, the flood claimed at least 104 lives, with dozens still unaccounted for. Kerr County alone recorded over 84 fatalities, a heartbreak echoed across families and communities
Local leaders and volunteers rallied with rescue efforts—more than 850 people saved, including swifboat rescues, kayaks, and Coast Guard divers . Still, many continue to search for missing friends, family, and neighbors.
⚠️ Flash Flood Alley: A Dangerous Reality
This theft of peace comes on the heels of a region long known as “Flash Flood Alley”—a stretch prone to sudden, fierce flooding due to its unique topography. Yet despite some flash-flood warnings, many in the camp area received little to no advance alerts. Calls are growing louder for better warning systems to protect residents and visitors alike.
🕯️ Remembering Those Lost
The memory of those seven young lives—Renee, Sarah, Janie, Blair, Brooke, Eloise, and Lila—will be forever entwined with Camp Mystic’s story. Their friendship and bonds in life make their loss all the more heartrending
🕊️ As We Mourn, We Act
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Support rescue & recovery: Volunteer groups, shelters, and first-responders continue their critical work.
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Donate & assist: Contributions to relief funds (e.g., Kerr County Flood Relief) are vital.
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Advocate for warning systems: Many believe this tragedy underscores a need for rapid alert infrastructure.
📌 Final Reflection
What began as a joyful day on the Guadalupe River became a chapter of tragic loss—yet in the grief, communities have shown incredible resolve: rescuing strangers, mourning friends, and advocating for change. May the memory of Renee, Sarah, Janie, Blair, Brooke, Eloise, and Lila live on—not just in sorrow, but as a catalyst for action, preparedness, and compassion