Tragedy at Camp Mystic: Flash Flood Claims Lives, Including 19-Year-Old Counselor

A devastating flash flood struck Texas Hill Country on July 4, causing the Guadalupe River to rise 26 feet in just 45 minutes. Among the hardest-hit areas was Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp near Hunt, Texas. The flooding left cabins submerged and campers stranded, with at least 27 initially reported missing.

One of the victims was Katherine Ferruzzo, 19, a beloved counselor and recent high school graduate set to study special education at UT Austin. Her body was found a week later. Her family has since launched the Katherine Ferruzzo Legacy Foundation to honor her passion for helping children with special needs.

Also killed was Camp Mystic director Richard Eastland, 70, who died while trying to rescue campers—remembered by many as a hero.

The disaster claimed at least 107 lives across the region, including 87 in Kerr County alone. The incident has sparked criticism over a lack of flood sirens and emergency preparedness, as officials push for infrastructure improvements.

Global condolences have poured in, and support continues for grieving families. While search efforts remain underway for the missing, the Texas community stands united in memory and resilience.