Over the July 4th weekend, Central Texas was devastated by flash floods after torrential rain caused the Guadalupe River to rise with terrifying speed, engulfing homes and camps. In Kerr County, the river surged to the height of a two-story building in less than an hour, according to AFP. The floods have so far claimed at least 107 lives across six counties, with many more still missing. Among the victims was 21-year-old Joyce Badon, who sent a final, heartbreaking text to her family before being swept away.
Joyce and her friends—Ella Cahill, Reese Manchaca, and Aiden Heartfield—were staying at a country home along the river when the disaster struck. The home was completely destroyed in the early morning hours. Aiden’s father spoke with the group briefly before their phone connection died. Joyce’s father, Ty Badon, said their last communication included Aiden saying, “I have to help Ella and Reese,” followed by silence. Joyce’s mother, Kellye, also shared a desperate Facebook post, asking for prayers and revealing how quickly the flood overtook the house and cars.
Search efforts launched immediately, with volunteers and family members scouring a seven-mile stretch of riverbank. Many bodies were discovered trapped in debris, some as high as ten feet in trees. Ty Badon even stumbled upon the body of a young boy during his search. Despite the devastation, the community rallied together, dividing into teams and supporting one another through grief and uncertainty.
On July 7, Joyce’s body was located, bringing tragic closure to her family. Her mother Kellye honored her daughter in a touching Facebook post, expressing gratitude for the 21 years they had with her. She shared a photo of a rainbow over their home, believing it was a message from Joyce in heaven, captioned, “All is well with my soul.”
Joyce’s final text message—“we’re being washed away”—serves as a haunting reminder of the flood’s swiftness and terror. While Reese’s body has also been found, Ella and Aiden remain missing. The search continues, as hope and heartbreak persist in the wake of unimaginable loss.
