Devastating floods swept through Texas communities over the July 4 weekend, leaving heartbreak in their wake. Among the many stories of loss and courage, one family’s tale stands out—a father who gave his life to save his fiancée, children, and mother.
The unprecedented flash floods forced Texas officials to declare a state of emergency in multiple counties. The Guadalupe River surged to a terrifying 26 feet, swelling rapidly after a month’s worth of heavy rain fell within just a few hours.
Tragically, authorities report that at least 50 lives have been lost so far, including 15 children.
In Kerr County—one of the hardest-hit areas—a man’s selfless act of bravery saved his loved ones, though it cost him everything.
Julian Ryan, 27, heroically fought to save his family during the sudden flood that struck in the early hours of July 4. As water rapidly filled their home, Julian punched through a window—severing an artery in his arm—and ultimately lost his life from the severe blood loss.
That terrifying morning, Julian’s mother, his fiancée Christina Wilson, and their two young children—a six-year-old and a 13-month-old—were huddled together in the bedroom of their caravan home in Ingram when the flooding began.
Christina shared with local news how Julian’s desperate act saved them all. “He nearly cut his arm clean off trying to get us to the roof,” she recalled.
In a heartbreaking interview with KHOU 11, Christina recounted Julian’s final moments: “By 6 o’clock, my husband was gone. He had lost all his blood. But before he passed, he looked at me, the kids, and my mother-in-law and said, ‘Sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all.’”
It wasn’t until the floodwaters receded that Christina found Julian’s body—hours later, his life was mourned and honored by all who knew him.
Julian’s mother called him “the hero of this story,” a man who gave everything for those he loved.
The family has since urged authorities to implement better flood warnings to prevent such tragedies in the future.
On Friday, Col. Freeman Martin, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, confirmed the massive rescue efforts underway: “We brought in over 100 troopers this morning. They’ve worked all day—conducting rescues with high-water vehicles, boats, rescue divers, and seven helicopters equipped with hoists.”
In response to the disaster, Texas Governor Greg Abbott vowed unwavering commitment to the rescue efforts. “We will stop at nothing to deploy every available asset—personnel, planes, and resources—to rescue every last person and ensure everyone affected is accounted for,” he declared.
President Trump also addressed the tragedy, calling the floods a “terrible thing.” Expressing sympathy for the victims, he noted, “It looks like some young people have died.” He assured that his administration would collaborate closely with Governor Abbott to deliver aid and support to Texas during this incredibly challenging time.