Tragedy struck Texas on July 4 when a sudden and powerful flash flood swept through **Camp Mystic**, claiming the lives of dozens — including two young sisters, **Blair Harber, 13, and Brooke Harber, 11**. In their final moments, the girls sent a short but deeply emotional message to their parents: **“I love you.”** Those three words now echo in the hearts of a grieving family and community struggling to comprehend the loss.
The flood was triggered by **intense, unexpected rainfall** that caused the nearby **Guadalupe River** to rise a staggering **26 feet in just 45 minutes**. The rapid surge of water overwhelmed emergency protocols, leaving campers and counselors with little time to react. Despite early warnings, the speed and scale of the disaster proved impossible to manage.
Once a beloved summer haven filled with laughter and friendship, **Camp Mystic** was transformed overnight into a scene of chaos and heartbreak. Rescue teams worked tirelessly in dangerous conditions, but by the time the waters receded, at least **27 campers and counselors** were confirmed dead, with **11 more still missing**.
Among the victims, the Harber sisters’ story stands out as a poignant symbol of love and innocence. When rescuers found their bodies downstream in **Kerrville**, the two were still **holding hands**, a haunting image that has since touched hearts across the nation.
Local and state agencies continue their search and recovery efforts, supported by volunteers, families, and grief-stricken residents. Vigils have been held across Texas, with candles lit in memory of those lost.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of **nature’s power and unpredictability** — and of how fragile life can be. For many, the Harber sisters’ final message is not only a testament to their bravery but also a lasting reminder to cherish every moment with the ones we love.
