July 9, 2025 | Texas Flood Disaster Coverage
In one of the most heartbreaking discoveries to emerge from the catastrophic Texas flood, emergency crews have confirmed that two young sisters were found deceased, hand in hand, beneath the wreckage of a collapsed cabin at Camp Mystic — the now-infamous summer camp where at least 27 girls went missing during the storm.
The sisters, identified as Emily Rivera (8) and Sofia Rivera (10) from San Antonio, had been reported missing since the early hours of Sunday morning when flash floods tore through the hill country campgrounds with devastating force.
💔 “They Never Let Go”
According to first responders, the girls were found together under layers of debris, partially submerged in water. But what has left even the most seasoned rescue workers in tears was not just their position — but what was clutched tightly in Sofia’s hand.
“She was holding a folded piece of paper. It was dry. Perfectly preserved,” said paramedic Joanna Lee. “We didn’t know what it was at first… then we read it.”
Written in a child's handwriting, the note read:
“Mommy, we’re scared but we’re together. If you find this, we stayed brave. Tell Dad we love him. Emily’s holding my hand tight. We’re not letting go.”
🛑 A Devastating Scene
The sisters were discovered in what had been a shared sleeping cabin, now reduced to splinters. Officials believe they were trapped during the first wave of flooding and likely sought refuge beneath a bunk bed, where they huddled until the structure collapsed.
“It was a peaceful position. No signs of panic. Just two sisters, holding on to each other in the dark,” said one rescue official who asked not to be named.
The girls' parents, Marcos and Isabel Rivera, had been part of the on-site search since Monday. They were notified in private before the official statement was released. A family friend told reporters,
“They just kept whispering, ‘They were together… they were together.’”
🌧️ National Grief and Outrage
The Rivera sisters have become the symbolic faces of the flood tragedy, prompting thousands to light candles, leave teddy bears, and write messages outside the gates of Camp Mystic. Hashtags like #RiveraSisters, #HoldOnTight, and #TexasStrong are trending nationwide.
President Biden released a statement late Tuesday:
“What happened in Texas is a tragedy. But the courage, the love, and the bond these two young sisters showed… that’s what will stay with us forever.”
The Governor of Texas has ordered an immediate investigation into the camp’s flood protocols, warning system failures, and lack of emergency infrastructure.