Texas Father Joins Search for Missing Daughter as Floodwaters Leave Communities Devastated
A father’s search for his missing daughter took a heartbreaking turn during the aftermath of severe flash flooding that struck parts of Texas over the July 4 weekend. In just 45 minutes, a powerful storm dropped 15 inches of rain into the Guadalupe River watershed, causing water levels to rise by more than 25 feet and triggering widespread flooding in riverside towns.
Ty Badon traveled 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 house, once perched at the water’s edge, was swept away by the rising river. Determined to find answers, Badon and his son joined community members in searching the area, wading through waist-deep water and calling out Joyce’s name.
During one of these searches, they came across a deeply emotional scene—a young child who had been caught in the floodwaters. “We were walking, looking for Joyce, when we saw something tangled in branches,” Badon told CNN. “At first we thought it might be debris, but it wasn’t.” While shaken by the discovery, Badon remained focused on finding his daughter. “We’re still holding out hope,” he said. “We just want to bring them home.”
More than 850 people have been rescued so far, but many others remain unaccounted for. Among those missing are ten girls and a counselor from Camp Mystic, a summer camp located near the river. Search and rescue teams—including firefighters, local law enforcement, and volunteers—are continuing operations on land, by boat, and by air, but challenging weather and strong currents have made access difficult.
Survivors are being brought to safe zones like Ingram Elementary School, where volunteers provide meals, blankets, and registration assistance. Badon and his family return there often, hoping to hear Joyce’s name called. “The people at Ingram have been incredible,” Badon said. “But when your loved one isn’t on the list, you know you have to keep looking.”
Officials, including Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha, have stressed the importance of safety during recovery efforts. “Search teams are working tirelessly,” he said. “We urge everyone to avoid flooded areas and follow official instructions. Your safety is our top concern.”
Questions have emerged about the warning systems ahead of the flood. Some local leaders and residents say more timely alerts could have helped more families evacuate. The National Weather Service has acknowledged staffing challenges, but noted that flash flood warnings were issued as the storm developed.
In affected communities, residents are navigating both cleanup and uncertainty. Damaged homes, waterlogged cars, and scattered belongings tell the story of a disaster still unfolding. But amid the heartbreak, stories of courage and compassion continue to emerge. Neighbors have formed rescue teams, opened their homes, and donated clothing, supplies, and transportation to those in need.
For Badon, the days since the flood have brought unimaginable challenges—but also unwavering determination. “We won’t give up,” he said. “That little boy deserved to be found, and so does my daughter.”
As the community rallies, and as rescue efforts continue, families across Texas are holding onto hope—hope that the missing will return, that healing will come, and that even in the wake of disaster, love and resilience will lead the way forward.