At least 27 people, including campers and staff, have lost their lives after the sudden flooding of Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp located along the Guadalupe River in Texas.
The tragedy happened over the Fourth of July weekend when heavy rainfall caused the river to rise more than 20 feet in under two hours.
The flooding began during the early morning hours, catching many by surprise. Rescue efforts began immediately, but the fast-moving waters overwhelmed parts of the camp.
Most of the girls camping close to the river sadly lost their lives.
Authorities in Kerr County confirmed that 10 campers and one counselor are still missing. Search operations are continuing as crews work around the clock to find them.
Among the dead is Dick Eastland, the longtime owner and director of Camp Mystic, who died while trying to help campers reach safety. His grandson shared news of his death in a social media post, describing his final moments during the rescue attempt.
The camp, which has been a summer tradition for generations of girls in Texas, remains in contact with local officials as the search continues.
Families have gathered near the site, waiting for updates as emergency crews comb through debris and high water in hopes of finding survivors.
Camp Mystic has offered words of comfort to grieving families on their official website, stating that they are doing all they can to support those affected by the disaster.