In a heartbreaking turn of events, a devastating flash flood in Texas has claimed at least 43 lives, with 15 of those being children linked to all-girls summer camps. Among the victims is eight-year-old Renee Smajstrla, who was enjoying her time at Camp Mystic when the flood hit. Renee's uncle shared a poignant message on Facebook, highlighting her vibrant spirit and the support received from social media in the rapid identification process. "She will forever be living her best life at Camp Mystic,” he reflected.
Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old Christian summer camp located by the Guadalupe River near Hunt, Texas, has reported that 27 campers remain unaccounted for. The camp has been family-run since the 1930s and is known for fostering personal growth and spiritual development in young girls.
Another victim, Jane Ragsdale, was the beloved director of the Heart O' the Hills camp, which also stands along the river and was tragically caught in the flood's path. A statement on the camp's website described Ragsdale as the "heart and soul" of the establishment, noting her influential role in shaping countless lives since she began her journey there as a camper in 1976.
Similarly heart-wrenching is the loss of young Sarah Marsh, a third grader at Cherokee Bend Elementary School, who was also at Camp Mystic during the disaster. Her family expressed their sorrow on Facebook, emphasizing the light she brought into their lives, stating, “She will live on in our hearts forever.”
Nine-year-old Lila Bonner, another young victim, was confirmed dead following the floods. Her family requested privacy during this difficult time, stating that they are in deep grief and praying for comfort.
As authorities continue their search efforts amid the aftermath, the community is left to mourn these profound and tragic losses.
Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old Christian summer camp located by the Guadalupe River near Hunt, Texas, has reported that 27 campers remain unaccounted for. The camp has been family-run since the 1930s and is known for fostering personal growth and spiritual development in young girls.
Another victim, Jane Ragsdale, was the beloved director of the Heart O' the Hills camp, which also stands along the river and was tragically caught in the flood's path. A statement on the camp's website described Ragsdale as the "heart and soul" of the establishment, noting her influential role in shaping countless lives since she began her journey there as a camper in 1976.
Similarly heart-wrenching is the loss of young Sarah Marsh, a third grader at Cherokee Bend Elementary School, who was also at Camp Mystic during the disaster. Her family expressed their sorrow on Facebook, emphasizing the light she brought into their lives, stating, “She will live on in our hearts forever.”
Nine-year-old Lila Bonner, another young victim, was confirmed dead following the floods. Her family requested privacy during this difficult time, stating that they are in deep grief and praying for comfort.
As authorities continue their search efforts amid the aftermath, the community is left to mourn these profound and tragic losses.
