Katherine Ferruzzo, 19-Year-Old Camp Mystic Counselor, Confirmed Among Victims of Central Texas Flooding
With broken hearts and unimaginable sorrow, we share the devastating news that Katherine Ferruzzo, a bright and beloved 19-year-old camp counselor at Camp Mystic, has been confirmed among the victims lost in last week’s catastrophic flooding in Central Texas. Her death has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, fellow counselors, campers, and an entire community now united in mourning.
Katherine was more than a name on a staff roster — she was a guiding light at Camp Mystic, a place where lifelong friendships are formed, confidence is nurtured, and countless memories are made under the Texas sky. For Katherine, being a counselor wasn’t just a summer job. It was a passion. It was about shaping young lives, building bonds, and creating joy. Her campers admired her energy and looked up to her, and her fellow counselors treasured her gentle spirit, quick wit, and compassionate heart.
The flooding that tore through parts of Central Texas last week was sudden and brutal. Torrential rainfall overwhelmed rivers and creeks, transforming serene summer campgrounds into dangerous flood zones in a matter of hours. Amidst this natural disaster, Katherine and several others were tragically caught in the rushing waters. Days of exhaustive search efforts ended in heartbreak when authorities confirmed that Katherine was among those who did not survive.
The Ferruzzo family, now navigating an unthinkable loss, has released a statement expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received while asking for privacy as they grieve the death of their daughter.
“Katherine lived a life full of light, laughter, and love. She gave herself wholeheartedly to every person she met, and the impact she had on others in just 19 short years is immeasurable. We are devastated, but we are also so proud of who she was.”
Camp Mystic, located along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas, has been a sacred place of tradition and joy for generations of campers. But the deadly flash floods that struck the area last week have turned celebration into tragedy. The camp, along with emergency responders, acted quickly once flood warnings were issued, but the sudden rise in water levels made some areas inaccessible. Rescue teams worked tirelessly, and even now, recovery efforts and investigations continue.
Friends and loved ones of Katherine have taken to social media to honor her memory, describing her as “joyful,” “devoted,” “radiant,” and “kind to the core.” Tributes include photos of Katherine in her camp uniform, laughing beside her cabin mates, or leading songs with her arms around campers during closing ceremonies.
A candlelight vigil is being organized at her university campus in the coming days, and a memorial service will be held at her home church in the Houston area. Her family plans to establish a scholarship fund in her name to support future Camp Mystic counselors who share Katherine’s passion for leadership and service.
This loss reminds us how fragile life is, and how deeply one soul can touch so many others. Katherine Ferruzzo’s absence is deeply felt, but the light she brought into the world continues to shine in those who knew her. Her memory will live on in the songs sung by future campers, the laughter echoing in the trees at Mystic, and in every heart she helped lift along the way.
May she rest in eternal peace. And may her story inspire us all to live with the kind of kindness, courage, and compassion that Katherine carried so effortlessly every day.