Texas officials have found the remains of two missing girls who were swept off in flash floods at Camp Mystic in Kerr County. The victims were identified as Renee Smajstrla, 8, and Janie Hunt, 9.
The catastrophic flooding occurred early Friday morning when the Guadalupe River overflowed due to heavy rain, sweeping cabins away and carrying campers along.
Renee’s uncle, Shawn Salta, posted a tearful message on Facebook announcing her death. “Not the result we hoped for, but the social media campaign probably assisted the first responders to recognise her promptly,” he wrote. “She was living her best life at Camp Mystic and will always be remembered that way.
Meanwhile, the body of Janie Hunt was also found, reports local media Corpus Christi Crnica. Previously, her mom had told CNN that the family was still waiting to hear and remaining hopeful.
As reported by AP, the accident occurred in the early hours of the morning when everyone was sleeping.
The National Weather Service reported the Guadalupe River rose more than 20 feet within 90 minutes, a high not experienced in the area since 1987. A flood warning had been issued at around 4 a.m., which did not leave enough time for evacuation.
Between 23 and 25 girls were first reported missing when several cabins at the Christian sleep-away camp were destroyed. The camp accommodates girls between the ages of 7 and 17.
ONGOING RESCUE EFFORTS
Rescue teams are doing research and rescue efforts are ongoing throughout the flood-affected region. Heavy rain will continue throughout Hill County, flash flood warnings stretching from San Antonio to Waco during the weekend.
The authorities have asked citizens to stay cautious since the risk of more flooding continues. Citizens have shown their support for the victims with solidarity messages and expressions of sympathy across social media.
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