Two young counselors at Camp Mystic in Texas made a heartbreaking decision during the deadly flash floods—writing the names of children on their bodies in case they didn’t survive. The emotional act of bravery is now shedding light on just how dire the situation was for those trapped during one of the deadliest floods in Texas history.
According to PEOPLE, 19-year-old counselors Silvana Garza and Maria Paula spoke to Mexican news outlet NMas on Sunday, July 6. The two were working at a nearby branch when floodwaters began to rise, forcing campers to pack emergency bags. “We told them to pack a bag, to pack their favorite stuffed animal. We didn’t know if we were going to be evacuated or not. We were just waiting,” Maria shared in the emotional interview. Before writing the campers’ names on their bodies, the counselors wrote their names on themselves in case they were swept away.
As fear began to set in, Silvana and Maria said they were told to remain positive to avoid panicking the young girls. But inside, they were preparing for the worst. “Others wanted their parents. I really don’t know how to explain it. It was something awful,” Silvana said. Under their care, they ensured the safety of 20 girls while waiting for evacuation.
Flash Flood Claims 27 Lives at Camp Mystic
Tragically, what started as a precaution turned into one of the deadliest natural disasters in the state’s recent history. As previously reported, the flash flood claimed more than 80 lives statewide. Camp Mystic released a devastating statement on Monday confirming 27 deaths among campers and staff. “We are heartbroken to confirm the loss of 27 beloved members of our Camp Mystic family. We are continuing to search for those still missing,” camp administrators stated.
The statement praised the bravery of counselors and first responders who worked tirelessly to protect the children amid chaos.
National Response and Continuing Search Efforts
Local authorities and federal emergency teams are still conducting search and rescue missions across the flood-affected areas. Camp Mystic is located in one of the hardest-hit zones, where rescue efforts have been severely challenged by washed-out roads and dangerous conditions.
An investigation is also underway into how quickly the flooding developed and whether early warning systems were adequate to protect large camp gatherings like Mystic.