Camp Counselor Saves 14 Lives Amid Deadly Texas Floods

July 2025 – Kerrville, TX

Devastating flash floods in Texas have claimed at least 81 lives across six counties, with one of the worst tragedies unfolding at Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ retreat in Kerrville. There, 27 campers and counselors are confirmed dead, and several remain missing.

The Guadalupe River surged violently after heavy rains, overwhelming cabins in minutes. President Trump declared a major disaster, mobilizing federal aid as search efforts continue.

Among the tragedy, a story of courage has emerged. Emma Foltz, a counselor at Camp Mystic and senior at Louisiana Tech University, led 14 young girls to safety during the chaos. Her swift action amid the rising waters has drawn national praise.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry honored her on X, writing, “She played an instrumental role in helping evacuate 14 of her campers… Please join me in thanking Emma for her bravery.”

Camp Mystic expressed heartbreak and gratitude: “We ask for your continued prayers, respect, and privacy. May the Lord wrap His presence around all of us.”

Survivor Amanda Sue Jones told CNN the flooding hit “like a wall of water,” giving campers little time to react. Despite monitoring nearby tributaries, many were caught off guard by how quickly conditions worsened.

Online, tributes to Emma Foltz continue to pour in: “You saved 14 little girls’ lives. That can never be repaid.”

As Kerrville mourns, Emma’s heroism stands as a reminder of selflessness amid catastrophe—and of light in the darkest moments.