AUSTIN (KXAN) — Camp Mystic confirmed the deaths of 27 campers and counselors from flash flooding that swept through the camp in the early morning of July 4. According to an update posted on its website Monday morning, the camp said its community grieves their losses.
“Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” the website read. “We ask for your continued prayers, respect and privacy for each of our families affected. May the Lord continue to wrap His presence around all of us.”
One of the deceased is Chloe Childress, 19, a former camper turned camp counselor. Her family sent out a statement to media Monday morning, in which they said that Chloe “lived a beautiful life that saturated those around her with contagious joy, unending grace, and abiding faith.”
Our family was shocked to hear of the horrific tragic flooding in the hill country, and we were devastated to learn that our precious Chloe was among the victims. While we know that her joy is now eternal and her faith has become sight, our hearts are shattered by this loss and the similar heartbreak of other families like ours. We desire to grieve privately during this time and thank so many caring people, in advance, for respecting this wish. Please know we are grateful for every kind thought, your quietly spoken prayers, and the countless hearts of sympathy that are carrying us through these days.
We thank you for kindly respecting our privacy as we celebrate Chloe’s life and mourn our incomparable loss.”
The Childress Family
The camp also said it has been in communication with authorities, who were “tirelessly deploying extensive resources to search for our missing girls,” according to the camp’s statement.
According to the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office, 10 campers and one counselor were unaccounted for as of Sunday evening.