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What Happened

On the morning of July 4, 2025, Central Texas—especially the Guadalupe River in Kerr County—was struck by catastrophic flash flooding after 5–11 inches of rain fell within hours. In just 45 minutes, the river surged over 20–26 feet, sweeping away homes, cabins, campers, and vehicles The Texas Tribune+15Wikipedia+15Chron+15.

Casualties & Missing Persons

• At least 129 people have died statewide, including over 96 in Kerr County alone; approximately 170 people remain missing KSAT+8Wikipedia+8The Texas Tribune+8.

• Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp by the Guadalupe, lost 27 campers and counselors, with six still unaccounted for, including Virginia “Ginny” Hollis, age 8 The Texas Tribune+13Wikipedia+13WSLS+13.

• The missing from Camp Mystic include four other 8‑year‑old girls: Kellyanne Lytal, Ellen Getten, Abby Pohl, plus 19‑year‑old counselor Katherine Ferruzzo The Daily Beast+15Chron+15MySA+15.

Response & Investigations

• Search-and-rescue operations involve over 2,100 responders, including the Coast Guard, National Guard, drones, boats, and dogs—all working around the clock People.com+15TIME+15MySA+15.

• Texas Governor Greg Abbott has deployed state assets and called a special legislative session to address flood preparedness The Watchers+5UPI+5Wikipedia+5.

• Questions arise about insufficient flood warning systems in Kerr County, despite prior requests for funding since 2017—without sirens or real-time stream gauges The Texas Tribune+7Houston Chronicle+7The Times+7.

❤️ For the Hollis Family & HP Community

The loss of Virginia Hollis has sent ripples of grief through the HP family and beyond. Her memory, and that of the other young victims, are being honored by both mourners and rescue teams. The ongoing search offers a glimmer of hope for the missing, and each effort is a step toward healing

Who was Katherine Ferruzzo?

• A 19-year‑old counselor from Houston, just about to begin early childhood education at the University of Texas at Austin this fall The Washington Post+15Houston Chronicle+15Houston Chronicle+15.

• A Memorial High School grad known for her strong spirit, her volunteer work as a teacher aide, and organizing unity events for students with special needs Houston Chronicle+3Houston Chronicle+3San Antonio Express-News+3.

• At Camp Mystic, she was serving as a swim instructor and junior head counselor—believed to have stayed back to help campers evacuate during the flash flood Chron.

🔍 Current status and search efforts

• Katherine remains unaccounted for, and as of July 10, rescue teams continue to search alongside efforts for other missing campers and one other staff member CBS News+4Chron+4Houston Chronicle+4.

• In total, five campers and one counselor (Katherine) were missing from Camp Mystic in the immediate aftermath of the July 4 flood New York Post+15Wikipedia+15Chron+15.

🌧️ The disaster at Camp Mystic

• Beginning July 4, the Guadalupe River surged approximately 26–29 feet in under an hour, engulfing riverside cabins, including the one housing Katherine The Texas Tribune+5The New Yorker+5New York Post+5.

• Across Central Texas, at least 129 fatalities have been confirmed, with about 170 people still missing; Camp Mystic suffered 27 confirmed deaths and multiple individuals missing Midland Reporter-Telegram+15Wikipedia+15TIME+15.

In Loving Memory of Lila Bonner
With broken hearts and unspeakable grief, we share the devastating news that Lila Bonner, age 9, has been found deceased after being missing for several days following the catastrophic flood at Camp Mystic.

Lila was a bright, joyful spirit — full of curiosity, laughter, and kindness that touched everyone around her. Her young life, filled with promise, was tragically cut short in a moment that has left her family, friends, and the broader community in deep sorrow.

The search for Lila united countless people in hope, and though the outcome is unbearably painful, the love and support shown in recent days is a testament to how many hearts she touched in her short time with us.

We extend our deepest love and condolences to Lila’s family during this unimaginable time. May they find moments of peace in the midst of their grief, and may Lila’s memory forever be a light in their lives and in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest gently, sweet Lila. You will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Mike Whitlock
Dallas, Texas – With heavy hearts, we share the news of the peaceful passing of Mike Whitlock, a beloved father, friend, and source of strength to all who knew him.

Just yesterday, Mike was alert and smiling, able to share precious final moments with his children — giving them hugs, saying his goodbyes, and leaving them with love that will last a lifetime. Later that day, he gently slipped into a sleep from which he did not wake. While the sorrow is deep, there is comfort in knowing that his passing came with dignity, surrounded by love.

Mike’s legacy is one of compassion, quiet courage, and deep devotion to his family. He faced his final days with grace, and his strength has been especially reflected in Kayson, who has shown a resilience far beyond his years.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike’s family, especially his children, as they navigate this profound loss. May his memory continue to shine as a guiding light for all those he left behind.

Rest peacefully, Mike. You are deeply missed, and forever loved.KP

In Loving Memory of Nick Ortega
Santa Ana, California – The community of Santa Ana is united in grief and reflection following the tragic and untimely passing of Nick Ortega, a deeply respected resident who lost his life in a devastating car accident on July 9, 2025.

Nick was known for his warmth, generosity, and the quiet strength he brought to those around him. Whether as a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or family member, he touched countless lives with his kindness and integrity. His sudden passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

As the community comes to terms with this heartbreaking loss, there has also been an outpouring of love and support for Nick’s family. Many are remembering his positive spirit, his loyalty, and the impact he made in his time here.

We extend our deepest condolences to Nick’s loved ones. May you find comfort in the embrace of community and in the memories of a life well lived — though gone too soon.

Rest in peace, Nick. You will never be forgotten.

In Memoriam: Lee Elia
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lee Elia, a respected and longtime figure in the world of baseball who played a key role in some of the greatest teams in franchise history.

Lee served with dedication and distinction as a hitting coach (1993–1997), bench coach (2001–2002), and special assistant to the field manager (2008). His knowledge of the game, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to his players and staff made a lasting impact both on and off the field.

Beyond his baseball expertise, Lee was admired for his passion, honesty, and the respect he earned from everyone around him. His influence reached generations of athletes, coaches, and fans, and his legacy will remain a cherished part of the sport’s history.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Lee’s family, friends, former teammates, and all who were fortunate enough to work alongside him. He will be deeply missed.

Rest in peace, Coach Elia.

In Loving Memory of Lisa Studley
Berkley, MA – The town of Berkley, Massachusetts, is mourning the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of Lisa Studley, who tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack.

Lisa was a cherished member of the Berkley community — known for her kindness, warmth, and the quiet strength she carried into every space she entered. Her sudden passing has left friends, neighbors, and loved ones in deep sorrow, reflecting on the joy and care she brought into so many lives.

As we grieve this profound loss, we also honor Lisa’s life and the legacy of love, compassion, and community she leaves behind. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. May they find comfort in the love and support surrounding them, and in the beautiful memories of Lisa’s life.

In Loving Memory of TJ Costello
North Carolina – The North Carolina community and beyond are mourning the tragic and untimely loss of TJ Costello, a beloved husband, father, Marine, and former Navy football standout.

TJ was a man of remarkable character — defined by his unwavering dedication to his country, his team, and most of all, his family. He served with honor and courage as a United States Marine, and his time as a standout on the Navy football team reflected his strength, discipline, and leadership both on and off the field.

Those who knew TJ remember his fierce loyalty, his kind heart, and the way he inspired others simply by being himself. His loss is not only felt within his family and among friends but also across the broader military and athletic communities who admired and respected him.

We extend our deepest condolences to TJ’s family, friends, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss. May his legacy of service, love, and strength continue to live on through those he touched.

Rest in peace, TJ. You will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Ryan Waite
Angola, IN – With heavy hearts, Pranger Enterprises shares the sorrowful news of the passing of Ryan Waite, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident at his farm last weekend.

Ryan was not only a dedicated and hardworking member of the agricultural community, but also a beloved colleague, friend, and family man. His warmth, integrity, and quiet strength touched the lives of many, and his absence leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him.

At Pranger Enterprises and throughout the Angola community, Ryan was respected for his work ethic, his generous spirit, and his unwavering commitment to those around him. His loss is felt far and wide.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ryan’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time of profound grief. May he be remembered for the lasting impact he made on the lives of so many.

A quiet summer day in Naperville, Illinois, took a heartbreaking turn when reports of a drowning incident at Centennial Beach began circulating on social media. What was meant to be a peaceful afternoon quickly turned to sorrow, drawing widespread concern and grief from the community.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite their efforts, the incident ended in tragedy. The identity of the individual involved has not yet been officially released as loved ones and authorities process the loss.

This devastating event has sent shockwaves through Naperville, reminding us all how fragile life can be. Centennial Beach, a place long associated with laughter and community, now holds a somber silence as neighbors and friends come together in support and remembrance.

Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, friends, and all affected by this tragedy. The community mourns alongside you, and we hold you in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.