One Year After Deadly Camp Mystic Flood, Family of 8-Year-Old Cile Steward Still Waiting to Bring Daughter Home

Kerr County, Texas – One year after catastrophic flooding devastated Camp Mystic on July 4, 2025, the family of 8-year-old Cile Steward continues to search for answers — and for their daughter’s remains. Cile was among the 27 campers and counselors who lost their lives when floodwaters from the Guadalupe River swept through the camp.
Despite extensive search and recovery efforts, Cile’s body has still not been found nearly one year later. In a statement released ahead of the anniversary, her parents, Will and Cici Steward, expressed deep gratitude to volunteers, first responders, and officials who have persisted in the search.
The tragedy, which claimed multiple young lives, triggered lawsuits, official investigations, and broader scrutiny of camp safety protocols and emergency planning in flood-prone areas. Texas lawmakers have since reviewed and proposed updates to youth camp safety regulations in response to the disaster.
Photos shared by the family show Cile as a joyful young girl — smiling brightly, playing at the lake with arms outstretched, and enjoying summer camp life. Memorial tributes, including colorful floral arrangements, have been placed at the camp, which sustained significant damage from the flood.
For Cile’s loved ones, the anniversary serves as both a day of remembrance and a painful reminder that their search is not over. The family continues to hope for closure while honoring the memory of their daughter and the other victims.
The Camp Mystic flood remains one of the deadliest weather-related tragedies at a youth camp in recent Texas history.