The floodwaters hit Kur County without warning, turning the Guadalupe River into a raging torrent. Local officials were initially unaware of the impending disaster as heavy rains upstream contributed to the flooding. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in devastating consequences for families and summer camps alike. One of the hardest hit sites was Camp Mystic, a historic girls’ summer camp that had served Texas families for nearly a century. With more than 750 campers at the time, the camp was expected to be a place of joy and celebration. Tragically, the floodwaters wiped out half of the camp, killing 27 people, including campers and counselors. Camp director Dick Eastland died while heroically trying to save girls from rising floodwaters.
The devastation extended beyond the camp, affecting families camping for the weekend. Many were swept away by the floodwaters, with RVs overturned and swept away. Heartbreaking stories of loss included a firefighter who drowned while trying to save his wife, and families searching for missing loved ones, including young children. The death toll continued to rise, reaching 120, including 36 children. Search teams have shifted from search to rescue, leaving families facing the grim reality of loss and uncertainty. The community is in deep grief as it grapples with the devastation of homes and the irreparable loss of loved ones.
In the midst of the tragedy, George Strait released an emotional statement expressing his sorrow and solidarity with the victims. He emphasized the need for immediate support for those affected and emphasized the importance of honoring the first responders who worked tirelessly during the crisis. To channel his grief into action, George Strait is organizing a charity event called “Straight to the Heart.” Set to take place on July 27 in Texas, the dinner and concert will feature a host of country music stars, including William Beckman, Ray Benson and Jamie Johnson. With tickets starting at $1,000, the event aims to raise vital funds for flood victims, while also offering free tickets to first responders.