Texas Holds Vigil for Flood Victims as Search for Missing Continues
Hundreds gathered at Tivy Antler Stadium in Kerrville, Texas, on Wednesday night to mourn the 120 people confirmed dead in the devastating flash floods that struck during the July Fourth holiday. With over 160 still missing, the vigil offered a somber moment of reflection and prayer for grieving families and a community reeling from one of the deadliest inland floods in U.S. history.
Local clergy, families, and volunteers filled the stadium, many wearing Tivy High School’s blue shirts and green ribbons honoring Camp Mystic, a historic Christian girls’ camp where at least 27 campers and counselors lost their lives. Six remain missing from the camp alone.
“Our communities were struck with tragedy literally in the darkness,” said Wyatt Wentrcek, a youth minister, recalling how the floods hit in the middle of the night. “It’s a pain none of us will ever forget.”
The flood, now classified as the worst inland flooding since Colorado’s Big Thompson Canyon disaster in 1976, has left a trail of destruction across Texas Hill Country. Search crews continue to comb the Guadalupe River and surrounding areas by foot, horseback, drone, and helicopter. Specialized dogs are helping search through debris, though officials have acknowledged the likelihood of finding more survivors is slim.
“This stadium has seen victories and celebrations, but tonight is very different,” said Ricky Pruitt of the Kerrville Church of Christ, addressing the crowd with visible emotion.
Meteorologist Bob Henson confirmed the event as the deadliest inland flood in nearly 50 years. With many holiday visitors not formally registered at camps or hotels, the number of missing could still grow, making search efforts even more challenging.
Governor Greg Abbott has come under increasing criticism for what many see as inadequate flood preparedness and delayed warnings. “We will have accountability,” said Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha. “But right now, our priority is bringing loved ones home.”
In response, Abbott has called for an expansion of emergency communication networks and a new flood warning system. He plans to address the matter during a special legislative session beginning July 21. Federal financial aid is also being requested to support recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, questions mount over why a flood siren system – long debated by local officials – was never installed. Cost and noise concerns had stalled the project in previous years, but recent events have put that decision under renewed scrutiny.
President Donald Trump has pledged full federal support and is expected to visit the flood-ravaged areas on Friday.
— Reporting by Naqsh News and other Agencies
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