Flash floods in Kerr County, Texas, on July 5, resulted in the deaths of two young girls, Linnie McCown and Mary Stevens, both residents of Austin.
The incident occurred at Camp Mystic, a summer camp located along the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country.
Linnie McCown, 8, was a student at Casis Elementary School. Her death was confirmed by her father, Michael McCown, who shared the information publicly.
Linnie was among nearly two dozen girls initially reported missing after the floodwaters swept through the camp.
Mary Stevens, also 8 years old and a student at Highland Park Elementary School, was identified by local authorities as one of the flood’s additional victims. Both children were attending the camp when the flooding occurred.
According to officials, intense and sudden rainfall in the region led to flash flooding in multiple areas, including Kerr County. The Guadalupe River rose rapidly, submerging parts of Camp Mystic and surrounding areas. The flooding overwhelmed the area with little warning, complicating rescue and evacuation efforts.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and have emphasized the importance of flood preparedness, particularly in regions with high flood risk.
Investigations into the flood event and its response are underway, with officials aiming to improve readiness for future weather-related emergencies.
