Tragic Flood Escape Turns Heartbreaking for Texas Family
In the early hours of July 5, 2025, a family road trip through central Texas turned into a harrowing ordeal amid devastating floods. What began as a hopeful journey quickly spiraled into a fight for survival.
Seventeen-Year-Old Malaya’s Courageous Heroism
Malaya Grace Hammond, just 17 years old, showed extraordinary bravery when disaster struck. Amid rising floodwaters, she risked everything to save her younger siblings and a friend—sacrificing her own life in a selfless act of love.
The family had left their home in Marble Falls at 4:30 a.m., heading to a summer camp in the Ozarks. Alongside Malaya were her parents, Matthew and Liz, her brothers Khalil (16) and Surya (13), and Surya’s friend Opal (14).
A Wrong Turn Into Danger
Despite carefully checking weather reports and adjusting their route to avoid flooded areas, fate had other plans. Their van crossed a collapsed bridge moments before disaster struck. Matthew attempted to stop, but the vehicle was swept into the raging river.
As the water quickly rose around them, the family clung to hope—singing together, “Rise and Shine, and Give God the Glory.” With determination, Matthew instructed everyone to roll down the windows.
In a moment of courage and quick thinking, Malaya opened the sliding door and helped the younger children escape the sinking van, putting their safety above her own.
Her heroic sacrifice stands as a testament to the power of love and bravery in the face of overwhelming danger.
Family’s Fight for Survival in the Raging Floodwaters
As the floodwaters surged, Matthew and Liz swam desperately to safety. Matthew’s heart ached when he spotted Malaya about 15 feet away—calmly floating on her back, singing softly. “That was the last time we saw her,” he shared. Known as the best swimmer in the family, Malaya remained composed even in those terrifying moments.
Liz, struggling after swallowing water, reached the riverbank and clung to a tree branch where Khalil had also found refuge. Nearby, Opal held onto another tree and quickly called 911, while Khalil helped her safely ashore.
A Heartbreaking Search That Ended Too Soon
Matthew and Khalil searched through the dark, finding Surya wandering safely in nearby fields—but Malaya was nowhere to be found. The family’s desperate search spanned the weekend, involving land, air, and water teams.
On July 7, the unimaginable happened. Matthew saw his son’s tears and learned Malaya had been found lifeless, gently wrapped in cedar branches.
“She looked so peaceful,” Matthew remembered, voice heavy with sorrow. “I kept hoping she would wake up. If Jesus could raise Lazarus, why not my daughter?” But she never stirred.
Remembering Malaya Grace’s Light
Volunteer fire chief Michael Phillips tragically went missing during the search for Malaya, underscoring the danger they all faced.
Matthew described Malaya as “the most loving person I have ever known”—a kind and caring soul who always put others first. A gifted musician like her parents, she cherished singing and harmonizing with those around her.
Reflecting on her spirit, Matthew said, “Underneath the chaos, there was harmony. Malaya Grace lived to bring harmony to others.”
A Family’s Journey Toward Healing
In the wake of loss, Matthew and Liz have dedicated themselves to helping others who face similar heartbreaks. “The only way to heal is by serving those who are hurting,” Matthew shared.
Friends Mikki Willis and Steve Vincent have organized fundraisers to support the family with funeral and flood-related expenses.
Malaya was to serve as a counselor at the summer camp her siblings attended—a role she eagerly anticipated. Now, the community mourns her tragic loss and stands united in support of the Hammond family.