A Texas father’s desperate search for his missing daughter took a tragic turn after intense flash floods ravaged the region over the July 4 weekend. In less than an hour, a fierce storm dumped 15 inches of rain into the Guadalupe River basin, causing the river to surge over 25 feet and flood nearby communities.
Ty Badon rushed to Hunt, Texas, after losing contact with his 21-year-old daughter, Joyce, who had been staying with friends at a riverside rental home. The home was swept away by the rapidly rising waters. Determined to find her, Badon and his son joined local volunteers, wading through waist-high water while calling out Joyce’s name.
During the search, they found a heartbreaking sight—a young boy caught in the floodwaters. “We thought it was debris tangled in branches, but it wasn’t,” Badon shared with CNN. Despite the sorrow, Badon remains hopeful about finding his daughter. “We’re holding onto hope. We want to bring them both home.”
Over 850 people have been rescued, but many, including ten girls and a counselor from Camp Mystic, remain missing. Search efforts involving firefighters, police, volunteers, and specialized teams continue on land, water, and air, though strong currents and tough conditions make progress difficult.
Safe zones like Ingram Elementary School have been set up to aid survivors, offering food, blankets, and support. Badon and his family frequently visit, hoping to hear news of Joyce. “The community here has been amazing,” he said. “But until we hear her name, we keep searching.”
Authorities, including Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha, emphasize safety in ongoing operations. “Our teams are working nonstop,” he stated. “Please avoid flooded areas and follow official guidance to stay safe.”
Questions are being raised about flood warning systems. Some officials and residents argue that earlier alerts might have saved lives. The National Weather Service admits staffing shortages but confirms timely flash flood warnings were issued.
Communities affected by the flood face both physical damage and emotional turmoil. Flooded homes and ruined belongings paint a grim picture, but stories of kindness and courage continue to inspire. Neighbors have banded together, offering shelter, supplies, and help to those in need.
For Badon, these are difficult days filled with pain and hope. “That little boy deserved to be found, and so does my daughter,” he said firmly.
As rescue operations press on, families across Texas cling to hope—hope for reunions, healing, and the strength to rebuild in the aftermath of disaster
