News Summary

Recent floods in the Houston area have resulted in at least 13 fatalities, contributing to a total of 109 deaths across Texas. Identified victims include families trying to rescue each other from rising waters. As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the community is uniting to provide support for those affected by this devastating natural disaster.

Houston

The Hill Country floods have tragically claimed 13 lives in the Houston region, bringing the total fatalities across Texas to 109. The devastating floods have caused widespread destruction and have left many families mourning the loss of their loved ones while still battling the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Identity of Victims

Among the identified victims is Tim Walker, an artist and owner of Neon Gallery in Montrose, who drowned while attempting to save family members from a flooded cabin. Similarly, Mollie Schaffer, the wife of attorney Randy Schaffer, was swept away while ensuring her husband’s safety amid the rising waters.

Recent Caney Creek High School graduate Reese Menchaca was confirmed dead, found alongside three friends at a cabin hit by the floods. Additionally, campers at Camp Mystic have suffered tragic losses: Blakely McCrory and Greta Toranzo, both campers at the site, were confirmed dead. Toranzo had recently enjoyed learning to fish at camp before the floods struck.

Brad Perry’s body was identified late on Tuesday night as one of the casualties. Amber Wilson, who was at the HTR Hill Country Resort RV park with her family, has also been reported dead. Earlier fatalities include John Burgess, Jeff Wilson, and Rob Kamin. Tragically, Kamin’s wife, Melissa, remains missing.

The toll from Camp Mystic continues, with Chloe Childress (19), Margaret Bellows (8), and Mary Kathryn Jacobe (8) confirmed dead. As of Tuesday night, several others are still presumed missing, including fellow campers Lainey Landry, Molly Dewitt, and counselor Shiloh Wilson.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

As rescue operations continue, communities across Texas are mobilizing support for those affected by the floods. Efforts include food and supply donations aimed at assisting families in need. Houston rapper Trae tha Truth has taken initiatives to distribute meals and other supplies to those impacted, particularly in Kerrville.

Local businesses and restaurants are also playing a significant role, participating in fundraising and donation drives to support flood relief efforts. The response from the community demonstrates a collective effort to help rebuild and heal in the wake of this disaster.

Background Context

These floods have become one of the deadliest natural disasters in recent Texas history, especially affecting children and families. As rising waters inundated homes and outdoor sites, communities were caught off guard, resulting in tragic circumstances. The overall impact of these floods has extended beyond immediate fatalities, with many residents still unaccounted for and families shattered by the losses.

In the face of this catastrophe, the resilience of the affected communities is shining through, with citizens pulling together to support one another as they navigate the challenges of recovery and rebuilding. The extent of the damage is vast, and the journey to recovery will be long, but through community action and support, hope remains for those devastated by the floods.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Flooding in Central Texas Claims 43 Lives and Leaves Many Missing
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Central Texas
Central Texas Faces Catastrophic Flooding and Loss
Controversial Remarks by Pediatrician Amid Texas Flooding Crisis
Houston Reflects on Hurricane Beryl Anniversary Amid Recovery
Daily Summer Downpours Predicted in Houston
Pediatrician Fired Over Controversial Social Media Post During Texas Flooding
Texas Hill Country Devastated by Flooding
Tragic Flash Flooding Devastates Central Texas During Holiday Weekend
Catastrophic Flooding in Kerr County Claims 82 Lives

Additional Resources

• ABC 13 News
• Wikipedia: Flood
• CW 39 News
• Google Search: Texas Hill Country flooding
• Click 2 Houston
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
• Houston Chronicle
• Google News: Houston flood relief
• Houston Food Finder
• Google Scholar: Texas Floods impact
• MSN Weather

Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER

HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.