Texas – One year after catastrophic flooding at Camp Mystic claimed the lives of 27 campers and counselors, the parents of one young victim have shared a poignant and emotional message honoring their daughter’s memory.

Will and Cici Steward, the parents of eight-year-old Cile, reflected on the unimaginable loss as the anniversary of the tragedy approaches on the Fourth of July.

“On this Fourth of July, it will be one year since our eight-year-old daughter, Cile, was killed in the floodwaters at Camp Mystic,” the Stewards said in a statement.

The deadly floods struck the Christian summer camp in Central Texas on July 4, 2025, sweeping away children and staff amid rapidly rising waters. The Stewards’ message comes as families continue to grieve and advocate for improved safety measures at camps and in flood-prone areas.

Photos shared by the family show Cile smiling with loved ones, including her parents and a pet, capturing joyful moments before the tragedy. The family has also highlighted the broader impact on the Camp Mystic community, where multiple families lost children.

As the one-year mark nears, survivors, first responders, and loved ones are remembering the victims while calling for better warning systems and emergency preparedness. The Stewards’ heartfelt words serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring pain and the precious lives lost too soon.