Community in Mourning After Kerr County Floods

In a heartbreaking update following the devastating floods in Kerr County, Texas, two 8-year-old girls from Austin have been publicly identified among the victims. The girls, Linnie McCown and Mary Stevens, were attending Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls, when catastrophic floodwaters swept through the region.

Remembering Linnie McCown: A Light from Casis Elementary

Linnie McCown, a student at Casis Elementary School in West Austin, was remembered fondly by her father, Michael McCown. In an emotional tribute on social media, he wrote:
“She filled our hearts with so much joy we cannot begin to explain. We are going to miss her so very much but know she’s up there shining bright.”

Linnie’s school announced it will host a prayer vigil on Sunday evening to bring together grieving families and provide a space for collective healing and support.

Honoring Mary Stevens: Highland Park’s Fearless Spirit

Mary Stevens, a student at Highland Park Elementary School in north-central Austin, was also confirmed as one of the victims. Her mother, Stacy Stevens, shared a touching post online:
“You have left the most positive impact on everyone who knew you. I’m the luckiest that I got to be your mom and I will never stop loving you and trying to live life as you did. Fearless. Enthusiastic. Compassionate. And full of joy.”

She added that Mary had been enjoying her time at the camp, including a joyful dance party the night before the floodwaters came.

School District Responds with Grief and Support

Austin Independent School District Superintendent Matias Segura expressed his deep sorrow for the families affected by the tragedy.
“We know that some of our families and staff may be facing loss or uncertainty and we are coordinating with our crisis and counseling team to provide support and any needed services in the days ahead,” Segura stated.

The district is urging families to reach out to their school principals for assistance so they can coordinate crisis response and counseling services for grieving students and staff.

Devastating Toll: 59 Dead, Including 21 Children

At least 59 people, including 21 children, have lost their lives due to the flooding along the Guadalupe River. The flooding has severely impacted several children’s summer camps, including Camp Mystic, where the two young girls had been staying.

Heavy rains early Friday morning overwhelmed the riverbanks, prompting search-and-rescue efforts that have continued through the weekend. Emergency crews are still working to locate missing individuals, with hopes of finding survivors fading as time passes.

The Impact on Camp Mystic and Other Summer Camps

Camp Mystic, known for its Christian-based programming and beautiful riverside location, was among the hardest-hit areas. Many families sent their daughters to the camp expecting summer adventures and lifelong memories. Tragically, the experience turned into an unimaginable disaster.

Other camps in the area have also reported damage, evacuations, and temporarily suspended programs as they assess the extent of the impact.

A Unified Call for Community Support and Resilience

The local community in Austin and across Texas has responded with an outpouring of support for the families of Linnie and Mary. Community leaders, religious organizations, and local counselors are working together to provide emotional and spiritual care.

Mental health professionals have emphasized the importance of grief counseling for children, especially those who may have lost friends or been indirectly affected by the tragedy.

Lessons in Preparedness and Safety

The Kerr County flood disaster has renewed conversations about emergency preparedness, particularly in areas with vulnerable populations such as children’s camps. Many families and officials are calling for updated protocols, better evacuation routes, and real-time communication strategies to ensure safety in future extreme weather events.

Conclusion: Remembering and Moving Forward

The loss of Linnie McCown and Mary Stevens is a tragedy that has shaken the Austin and Kerrville communities to their core. As their families grieve, they are also supported by a strong network of educators, neighbors, and spiritual leaders. Their stories—full of light, love, and joy—will not be forgotten.

This heartbreaking event reminds us all of the fragility of life and the importance of community, preparation, and compassion in times of crisis.