In the wake of deadly floods in Texas, a father has shared the final text his daughter sent before being swept away. The floods have killed at least 109 people and left over 160 missing as waters surged through homes and campsites during Independence Day celebrations.
Joyce Catherine Badon, aged 21, was with friends near the Guadalupe River when the flash floods struck. She sent a chilling message to her father, Ty: “We’re being washed away,” before losing contact.
Volunteer search leader Louis Deppe recounted the message, emphasizing the urgency and danger of the situation. Joyce’s mother, Kellye, later announced on social media that Joyce’s body had been found, while her friends Ella Cahill, Aidan Heartfield, and Reese Manchaca remain missing.
Ty explained that the friends were staying at a property owned by Aidan’s father. Aidan’s last call to his dad mentioned helping his friends, but the call ended suddenly as the floodwaters arrived.
Some blame has been directed at the National Weather Service for failing to alert emergency services properly, with reports of staffing shortages due to budget cuts. However, the White House press secretary defended the agency’s response, calling accusations against former President Trump baseless.
This tragic event highlights the power of nature and the heartbreak families endure while waiting for answers.
