hao123The Camp Mystic Tragedy: A National Wake-Up Call
When floodwaters swept through Camp Mystic, the loss of every girl in attendance stunned the nation. The tragedy has led to renewed calls for flood preparedness and early-warning systems at summer camps across the U.S.
Trey Sermon’s Generous Donation and Rapid Action
San Francisco 49ers running back Trey Sermon responded with a $500,000 donation to support victims’ families and reinforce local emergency services, including funding for updated weather alert systems.
Sermon’s Message: “We Have to Be Better Prepared”
In a statement, Sermon called for reform in camp safety standards, saying, “This tragedy should never happen again. We owe it to these girls to make sure their story leads to real change.”
He Also Funded Technology for Future Prevention
Sermon’s support didn’t end with immediate relief. He directed part of his donation toward:
- Upgrading flood detection systems around Texas rivers
- Installing emergency alert apps at registered youth camps
- Providing training grants for camp staff on extreme weather response
Advocating for a National Camp Safety Standard
Trey Sermon also met with local officials and education leaders to propose a National Camp Safety Act, calling for modern weather infrastructure and staff certification across all U.S. youth camps.
Here’s What We Know About the Girls Who Lost Their Lives in the Texas Flooding at Camp Mystic
Renee Smajstrla, 8
Camp Mystic attendee Renee Smajstrla, 8, was tragically among the victims of the flooding, her family confirmed.
Her uncle, Shawn Salta, shared a touching message on Facebook:
“We are grateful she was surrounded by her friends and enjoying every moment, as shown in this photo from just yesterday. She will always be remembered living her best life at Camp Mystic.”
Janie Hunt, 9
Janie Hunt, a 9-year-old from Dallas, was one of the young girls whose lives were lost in the rising floodwaters.
Her mother told NBC 5, “We’re just shattered. There are no words.”
Sarah Marsh, 8
Traveling all the way from Alabama to attend Camp Mystic, Sarah Marsh, 8, was swept away in the disaster.
Her family shared with The Kerrville Daily Times:
“Thank you all for the overwhelming love and prayers. We are blessed to have had this bright, spunky light in our lives. She will always live on in our hearts.”
Lila Bonner, 9
Lila Bonner, 9, was attending Camp Mystic with her best friend Eloise Peck, sharing a cabin and unforgettable moments—until the flood claimed both their lives.
Her family told NBC News:
“In the middle of this unimaginable grief, we ask for privacy. We mourn with all who loved her, and we continue to pray for others who are suffering alongside us.”
Eloise Peck, 8
Eloise Peck, 8, was a second-grade graduate from Bradfield Elementary in Dallas. Her mother, Missy Peck, spoke to FOX 4:
“Eloise was friends with everyone. She loved spaghetti almost as much as she loved animals. She passed away with her best friend Lila, and she was fiercely loved during her eight years with us — especially by me.”
The Broader Impact and Rising Death Toll
Camp Mystic wasn’t the only location affected. The floods also claimed lives elsewhere — including young sisters visiting their grandparents when the torrent overwhelmed their riverside cabin.
The total number of lives lost has risen to 67, including 38 adults, and officials warn the number may climb to over 100, according to reports shared with Daily Mail.
Desperate posts have flooded social media as families and friends try to locate their missing loved ones in the aftermath.
A Summer Dream Turned Into a Nightmare
What was meant to be a magical summer getaway turned into a scene of devastation as torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to surge with alarming speed. Camp Mystic — long celebrated for its traditions and riverside serenity — became engulfed in chaos as floodwaters overtook cabins in the dead of night.
By Monday morning, officials confirmed what many had feared: All 24 girls at the camp were found deceased.
Kendall County Sheriff Troy Mendez described it as:
“The darkest day our community has ever seen. We’ve lost daughters, sisters, best friends — we’ve lost light.”
Blake Shelton Responds with Generosity and Grace
Country music star Blake Shelton has stepped up with heartfelt support, donating $100,000 toward family assistance and rescue efforts — and more than that, he used his voice to honor the fallen.
“River of Angels” — A Song for the Lost
Within hours of hearing the news, Shelton released an acoustic tribute titled “River of Angels.” The lyrics, “You danced where the water runs, now Heaven holds your song”, have already resonated with thousands online.
In an emotional video, he said:
“I didn’t know these girls personally, but I felt like I did. I hope this song brings just a small bit of comfort.”
A Nation in Mourning
Vigils are taking place throughout Texas and beyond. Communities are lighting candles, holding prayer circles, and sending messages of love. President Biden called it a “national tragedy” and pledged federal assistance to support ongoing recovery efforts.
What Comes Next
As search crews continue working and families navigate unthinkable grief, the entire country stands still — mourning, reflecting, and coming together.
