A Montgomery County-based search team has returned to Kerrville to continue the search for three remaining flood victims connected to the Camp Mystic tragedy.
The team, known as ‘Special K-9,’ is deploying certified cadaver dogs to scour areas along the river, where officials and families fear the victims may be located.
The group was first called to Kerr County by the Ingram Fire Department and Kerrville Police Department in the aftermath of the devastating flooding that claimed lives at Camp Mystic on July 4. Among those still missing is 8-year-old Cile Steward, whose family continues to advocate for her recovery.
In a letter sent to Camp Mystic leadership on Sept. 24, Cile’s parents, Cici and Will Steward, expressed their anguish over the camp’s communications regarding a planned reopening and memorial. The letter highlights the family’s frustration that Camp Mystic has not publicly acknowledged Cile remains missing, despite ongoing search efforts.
“Our daughters and loved ones died under Camp Mystic’s supervision and care,” the Stewards wrote. “One child — our child, 8-year-old Cile Steward — remains missing. Recovery teams are still out there every day, scouring the river—your backyard—risking their own safety to bring her home to us.”
The family also criticized the camp for promoting reopening less than three months after the tragedy while a child remains missing, calling the decision “unthinkable” and “intensifying our grief.” They are urging Camp Mystic to halt discussions about reopening and memorials until Cile is recovered and the camp fully addresses its role in the tragedy.
The Montgomery County search team continues to work alongside local authorities, hoping to bring closure to the families of all remaining missing victims.