What was meant to be a joyful summer turned tragic over the July 4th weekend when flash floods tore through Camp Mystic, a beloved Christian camp on the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas. The sudden wall of water claimed over 100 lives — including 27 from the camp — and left several still missing.

Among the victims were 8-year-old twins Hanna and Rebecca, granddaughters of former Miami Herald publisher David Lawrence Jr. Their older sister, 14-year-old Harper, survived. The girls’ parents, John and Lacy, both Dallas attorneys, shared their heartbreak: “We are devastated… the bond they shared is now frozen in time.”

Hanna and Rebecca had just finished 2nd grade at University Park Elementary and were known for their bright, joyful spirit. “They gave so much joy to everyone,” their grandfather said.

Even Camp Mystic’s longtime owner, Richard “Dick” Eastland, was among the lives lost. The camp remains in mourning as search crews continue looking for the missing.

David Lawrence, who spent his life advocating for children’s education, now grieves the loss of his own grandchildren.

In the face of this unimaginable sorrow, families ask for prayers — and remind us all to cherish every moment with those we love.