Kansas City Chiefs owner's family loses 9-year-old girl in Texas flood as they release heartbreaking statement
Janie Hunt was one of 27 Camp Mystic girls and staff members confirmed to have died in the flood
The wife of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has released a heartbreaking statement after losing a family member in the Texas flood.
A devastating flood swept through Kerr County in Texas after water levels in the Guadalupe River rose to breaking point. Late on Sunday (July 6), officials confirmed that 82 people had died as a result of the flood while many more were missing.
With search and rescue efforts still underway, they have since warned that the death toll will continue to rise.
One of the most heartbreaking situations to come from the unexpected floods is the impact on a Christian summer camp for girls. Camp Mystic, which was set up in 1926, is a camp for girls above the second grade to build their confidence and independence. Texas Governor Greg Abbott said that some 750 girls had been staying at the camp when the floodwaters hit.
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The camp confirmed earlier today (July 7) that 27 girls and staff members had been killed by the flash flood.
"Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy," it wrote in a statement on its website.
Officials have said 10 girls and one camp counselor remain missing.
Amongst the Camp Mystic attendees who tragically lost their lives in the disaster was 9-year-old Janie Hunt, a young family member of Kansas City Chiefs owner and CEO Clark Hunt.
Janie's mother confirmed her death to CNN, saying: "We are just devastated."
Meanwhile, Tavia Hunt, Clark's wife, wrote on Instagram: "Our hearts are broken by the devastation from the floods in Wimberley and the tragic loss of so many lives — including a precious little Hunt cousin, along with several friend’s little girls. How do we trust a God who is supposed to be good, all knowing and all powerful, but who allows such terrible things to happen — even to children?
"That is a sacred and tender question — and one the Bible doesn’t shy away from. Scripture is filled with the cries of those whose hearts have been shattered, who still wrestle to trust the same God they believe allowed the pain."
Other confirmed deaths at the summer camp include Renee Smajstrla, 8, Sarah Marsha, 8, Eloise Peck, 8, and Lila Bonner, 9.
Speaking to NBC News, Lila’s family said: "In the midst of our unimaginable grief, we ask for privacy and are unable to confirm any details at this time.
"We ache with all who loved her and are praying endlessly for others to be spared from this tragic loss."
Topics: News, US News, Texas, Texas floods
Bec Oakes