The Guadalupe River in Kerr County, Texas, was struck by a devastating flash flood that occurred over the weekend of July 4th. At the time of the sudden surge, young campers were still present at Camp Mystic, which is a private Christian girls’ summer camp located close to Hunt.
In the midst of the chaos, Jane Ragsdale, 68 years old, the director of Heart O’ the Hills Camp, tragically lost her life after bravely entering the floodwaters in an attempt to rescue the girls. Since taking over the role of camp director in 1988, Ragsdale had been a mentor and a leader to countless generations of young women. She was known for her fondness and leadership.
Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
At the time of the fourth of July, the floods had claimed the lives of at least 24 people, and rescue teams had successfully evacuated approximately 270 people. However, there are still over twenty children who have not been found, the majority of whom are young girls from Camp Mystic.
It has been confirmed by Governor Greg Abbott that “all necessary resources” have been mobilized, which includes water-rescue teams from the Department of Public Safety and National Guard units. Dan Patrick, Lieutenant Governor, emphasized the extensive ongoing efforts that are being made, which include the use of fourteen helicopters, twelve drones, nine ground-rescue teams, and hundreds of personnel searching the riverbanks and the terrain in the surrounding area.
The local authorities have emphasized that it is possible that some of the children who have gone missing are simply not within the range of the communication systems from the camps. As neighbors and emergency personnel continue their work well into the night, families continue to suffer the suffering of their loved ones.
Personal Stories & Community Response
The girls who have not been found are Hadley Hanna, who is eight years old, Eloise Peck and Lila Bonner, who are both nine years old, and they are all from the Dallas area. Campaigns on social media that are being run by families and members of the community are pleading for any leads or sightings that may be available.
During the night, the water quickly flooded the camp, sweeping away cabins that contained campers inside. Eyewitnesses described the terrifying scenes that occurred. It was reported that one counselor awoke to water that was up to her chest, and she assisted campers in fleeing for their lives before being swept downstream herself. She was later rescued safely, but she continued to encourage the girls to cling to any floating debris.
Devastation Beyond the Camp
The flooding devastated the wider Hill Country region. Businesses along the Guadalupe River, including a newly opened hair salon and a local shaved‑ice stand, were buried under mud and debris. Memorials are being held, and rescue crews are working relentlessly to locate all campers, staff and neighbors affected.
What Happens Next
- Ongoing search-and-rescue: Authorities have reiterated — “until all are accounted for,” the efforts will persist .
- Infrastructure checks: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is inspecting Canyon Lake dam’s structural integrity to assess for further risks .
- Weather conditions: Though rainfall has eased to drizzles with lower flash-flood warnings, rivers remain swollen and hazardous — posing continued threats to isolated areas
In Memory of a Camp Leader
Jane Ragsdale is being hailed by family, campers and locals as a beacon of strength and compassion. Her loss is deeply felt across Texas’s summer-camp community. Since stepping into camp leadership over 35 years ago, Ragsdale dedicated her life to empowering young girls through outdoor leadership and Christian fellowship.
Final Thoughts
The unprecedented floodwaters that swept through Camp Mystic have unleashed heartache across Texas. But amid overwhelming tragedy, these stories of courage—most notably Jane Ragsdale sacrificing her life to save others—highlight the enduring strength of community. As the search continues, the hope is that every missing camper will be found safe.
If you have information about missing campers or can volunteer to help efforts in Hunt, Texas, please contact Kerr County emergency services or the Texas Department of Public Safety.
