Hearts Broken in Austin: Linnie and Mary, Age 8, Among Lives Lost in Texas Camp Tragedy

In a world that often moves too fast, two 8-year-old girls from Austin reminded everyone what pure joy, laughter, and love look like. Linnie McCown and Mary Stevens were more than just young campers at Camp Mystic—they were the kind of children whose light filled every room they entered. And now, their names are etched in the hearts of a grieving community forever changed by tragedy.

The recent floods in Kerr County have shaken Texas to its core, claiming dozens of lives, including those of 21 children. Among them were Linnie and Mary—best friends to many, beloved daughters, and students with bright futures.

Linnie, a second grader at Casis Elementary in West Austin, was the kind of child whose bright smile and gentle spirit made the world feel a little warmer. Her father, Michael, spoke through tears as he described a daughter who “filled our hearts with so much joy we cannot begin to explain.” In a post that’s now been shared countless times across social media, he wrote that while their home feels painfully empty without her, he believes she’s now “shining bright” in the skies above.

Mary Stevens, who went to Highland Park Elementary, left an equally unforgettable impression on those who knew her. Her mother, Stacy, poured her grief into a post that has moved thousands. “You have left the most positive impact on everyone who knew you,” she wrote. “I’m the luckiest that I got to be your mom. I will never stop loving you or trying to live life the way you did—fearless, enthusiastic, compassionate, and full of joy.”

Mary had written home just days before the flood, gushing about the fun she was having. Her mother finds some peace in knowing her daughter spent her final days surrounded by friends, dancing and laughing beneath the stars. “He has bigger plans for you,” Stacy wrote, her words wrapped in heartbreak and faith.

The flood came without mercy—rising quickly along the Guadalupe River and tearing through the peaceful grounds of Camp Mystic, a Christian summer retreat for girls. What was meant to be a time of friendship, growth, and fun turned into a nightmare no one could have imagined.

Since Friday, rescue crews have searched nonstop through the flood’s devastation. At Casis Elementary, families and classmates gathered for a tearful candlelight vigil. Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura expressed deep sorrow and pledged full support, with counselors now helping families through the unimaginable loss.

“Some of our families are living through unimaginable pain,” said Segura. “We want them to know—they’re not alone in this.”

It’s hard to understand why lives so young, so full of wonder, are taken from us. But in the stories of Linnie and Mary, there’s something larger than sorrow. There’s the reminder that even the smallest hearts can leave the biggest marks. That joy, laughter, and kindness can ripple out long after someone is gone.

So tonight, hold your children a little closer. Tell someone you love them. Dance in the kitchen. Laugh until your cheeks hurt. Because that’s exactly what Linnie and Mary would have wanted.

And maybe—just maybe—if you look up at the night sky, you’ll see two little stars twinkling a bit brighter than the rest.