A summer camp turned tragic when flash floods struck Central Texas over the July 4th weekend, claiming the lives of 8-year-old twin sisters Hanna and Rebecca Lawrence. The girls were attending Camp Mystic with their 14-year-old sister, Harper, who survived the disaster. The twins were beloved for their joy and closeness, and their loss has deeply affected their family and community.
Their grandfather, David Lawrence Jr., a former Miami Herald publisher and founder of The Children’s Movement of Florida, confirmed the heartbreaking news. He described the girls as a source of endless joy for their parents and sister. The family now focuses on honoring the twins’ memory by preserving that joy and sharing it with others.
Camp Mystic, located on the Guadalupe River, was among the hardest hit. According to Kerr County officials, dozens of lives were lost, including campers, staff, and the camp’s director. As of July 7, the official death toll across the region had reached 75, with several individuals still unaccounted for. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing with support from state and federal agencies.
The Lawrence family, along with many others, is now navigating unimaginable grief. Community organizations, including The Children’s Movement of Florida, have asked for continued prayers and support for all families affected. The twins will be remembered for their light, laughter, and the love they brought to everyone around them.