Brenham, Texas — A tragic incident unfolded Tuesday when a child succumbed to injuries after being swept away by floodwaters the day prior. This occurred while responders were busy tackling a fire at a house struck by lightning.
The Swiftwater rescue team was dispatched to the vicinity of Brenham Firefighters’ Park on Monday afternoon following reports of children in distress due to sudden flooding. Authorities confirmed on Tuesday morning that the body of 10-year-old Deverwoods was found around 10 a.m. local time.
Reports indicated that several individuals attempted to assist the girl, but sadly, their efforts were in vain. A first responder also required rescuing after being carried downstream during the attempt to save her.
Search and rescue operations persisted until late Monday, although they were paused temporarily as severe weather escalated.
Officials announced that ground teams, drones equipped with thermal imaging, and specially trained dogs would continue the search throughout the night.
The Brenham Fire Department shared a message on Facebook, urging the community to keep the young girl, her family, and the dedicated responders in their thoughts and prayers.
Meanwhile, in Coreyville, emergency crews hurried to address a lightning-induced fire at a residence.
The Coreyville Fire Department responded to reports of a fire on 12 Oaks Lane in Colleyville on Monday afternoon.
A surveillance camera from a nearby home captured the moment lightning struck, igniting a blaze shortly after.
The severe weather threat continues on Tuesday
The threat of inclement weather lingered on Tuesday, with NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center placing over 16 million people at a level 2 on a five-point scale for severe thunderstorms.
This risk encompasses major Texas cities, including Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and Arlington.
Additionally, Texas has issued level 3 warnings, affecting areas like Round Rock, College Station, The Woodlands, Bryan, and Temple.
