The state of Texas has been shaken to its core after devastating floodwaters surged through the Hill Country, leaving behind destruction, grief, and stories of both tragedy and bravery. One story, in particular, has captured the hearts of many across the nation — the story of 9-year-old Janie Hunt, a bright, joyful camper at Camp Mystic, who was swept away during the chaos.
As the rains poured and rivers swelled beyond their limits, panic rippled through Camp Mystic. Counselors scrambled to protect their campers, parents desperately awaited updates, and children clung to one another in fear. In the middle of it all, Janie was separated and carried off by the rushing floodwaters. For nearly 36 agonizing hours, hope remained alive as search crews, families, and volunteers scoured the area, praying she would somehow be found safe.
But the news that came was not the miracle everyone had hoped for. Janie’s body was discovered downstream. What confirmed her identity was something both heartbreaking and deeply meaningful — a beaded necklace gifted to her by her grandmother, Margaret Hunt, after one of Janie’s school plays. A small token of love, turned into a symbol of unimaginable loss.
💔 The tragedy of Janie is just one chapter in what is now being described as one of the deadliest flash floods in recent Texas history. At least 27 campers and counselors are confirmed dead from Camp Mystic alone. Among them was the camp’s longtime owner, Dick Eastland, who lost his life heroically while helping children evacuate.
Yet even in the darkness, there were moments of light. Counselors like Emma Foltz showed extraordinary bravery, guiding 14 young girls to safety through the rising water, refusing to give up even as conditions worsened. These acts of courage are reminders of the strength and humanity that emerge in times of disaster.
For the Hunt family, though, words cannot describe the pain. Friends describe Janie as adventurous, curious, and full of life — a little girl who loved the outdoors, laughed loudly, and dreamed big. Now, her story has become a call for reflection: could more have been done? Should summer camps across flood-prone areas be required to have stronger emergency evacuation plans, weather protocols, and safer infrastructure?
The floods of August 2025 will be remembered not just for the destruction they caused, but for the lives they took — lives like Janie’s, cut far too short.
🙏 Tonight, as families grieve and communities rebuild, we hold Janie Hunt, the Hunt family, and the entire Camp Mystic community in our thoughts and prayers.
