Wade Lytal, offensive coordinator at Trinity University in San Antonio, is turning to social media for help after his young daughter, Kellyanne, went missing during the devastating floods that hit Central Texas over the weekend. She was one of several children at Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp, swept away when floodwaters tore through the site.
At least 80 people have been confirmed dead so far, with Kerr County hit the hardest. The camp alone lost five girls and its owner, Dick Eastland, who reportedly died while trying to rescue children. Authorities say 11 girls and one counselor remain missing. Over 400 first responders from more than 20 agencies are involved in the ongoing search and rescue mission.
Lytal shared a heartfelt video of Kellyanne performing a solo at her school’s Christmas recital, calling her “absolutely fearless” and asking for prayers. Trinity University also released a statement acknowledging the loss within their community and pledging support to affected families.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a statewide day of prayer, while former President Donald Trump described the disaster as a “100-year catastrophe” and hinted at a possible visit to Texas. He expressed solidarity with the victims and praised the efforts of Governor Abbott and rescue teams.
The Department of Homeland Security responded to criticism by defending the National Weather Service’s alerts, stating that the flooding was caused by sudden and extreme rainfall that overwhelmed the region.
Search operations continue as families cling to hope and the nation watches.