Camp Mystic counselor Emma Foltz helps save 14 campers in Texas flood

Camp Mystic Counselor Saves 14 Lives Amid Texas Flood Tragedy

The devastating flash floods in Texas have claimed the lives of at least 81 people across six counties, casting a long shadow over the Fourth of July holiday. Among the most heartbreaking losses occurred at the Christian girls’ summer retreat, Camp Mystic in Kerrville, where 27 campers and counselors are now confirmed dead, with others still missing.

As rescue teams continue searching, stories of loss have been met with powerful moments of bravery—none more moving than the heroism of Emma Foltz, a young camp counselor who saved 14 girls from being swept away in the floodwaters.

Texas Floods: A Rising Death Toll and Ongoing Search

The flooding was triggered by the overflow of the Guadalupe River, which surged violently through communities in and around Kerr County. President Donald Trump has since approved a major disaster declaration for the area, acknowledging the scale of destruction and human loss. Emergency teams remain deployed, conducting rescue operations as families cling to hope for missing loved ones.

Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” Camp Mystic stated on their official website. “We ask for your continued prayers, respect, and privacy for each of our families affected. May the Lord continue to wrap His presence around all of us.”

A Survivor’s Haunting Account of the Flood

Amanda Sue Jones, who was camping with her family near Camp Mystic, gave CNN a chilling account of how quickly the disaster unfolded.

“It happened in a matter of minutes… from quiet cabins to lights coming on, and then they were just being washed away,” she said. “It was immeasurably fast… almost like a wall of water came through.”

She added that despite closely monitoring a nearby tributary throughout the night, the rapid rise of water past the grass line was the cue to evacuate—a moment that came far too late for many.

Emma Foltz: A True Hero Emerges

While tragedy struck Camp Mystic with devastating force, one counselor’s bravery has emerged as a symbol of hope and resilience. Emma Foltz, a senior at Louisiana Tech University and a Camp Mystic counselor for three years, acted quickly and selflessly to lead 14 of her campers to safety.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry praised her heroism on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“She played an instrumental role in helping evacuate 14 of her campers to safety… Please join me in thanking Emma for all her hard work and bravery under immense pressure.”

Raised in Alexandria, Louisiana, Emma’s actions have touched hearts across the nation, especially in her home state where many have taken to social media to call for public recognition of her courage.

Outpouring of Gratitude for Emma’s Courage

Social media platforms have been flooded with praise for Emma’s heroism. Comments range from emotional thank-yous to calls for statewide honors:

Thank you for your quick thinking and for saving the children. May God bless you abundantly.”

“You savd 14 little girls’ lives. That can never be repaid.”

“Hero. May your family shine with admiration.”

Honoring the Lost and the Brave

As the community of Kerrville and families across Texas mourn, stories like Emma’s offer a reminder of the courage that can emerge in the darkest moments. While nothing can undo the heartbreak, recognizing and honoring those who stepped forward to save lives is vital.

Let’s continue to lift the families and victims of this tragedy in prayer—and celebrate the bravery of young women like Emma Foltz, who reminded us all of what it means to be selfless in the face of fear.