HOUSTON, Texas — The heartbreaking search for 16-year-old Mary Kate Jacobe, a Houston girl who went missing during the catastrophic flooding that swept through the Hill Country over the July 4th weekend, has come to a tragic end.
Officials confirmed Tuesday that Mary Kate’s body was found following an intensive multi-day search involving local authorities, emergency responders, and community volunteers.
Mary Kate had been attending Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp near Hunt, Texas, when the region was suddenly overwhelmed by historic flooding caused by relentless rains.
The South Fork of the Guadalupe River, which runs adjacent to the campgrounds, swelled rapidly in the early hours of July 5th, catching many campers and staff off guard. Despite emergency precautions taken by camp personnel, the rising waters proved devastating.
Mary Kate was reported missing after she was last seen near the riverbank during the flooding. The search effort began immediately, with teams from Kerr County emergency services, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and the Texas Department of Public Safety joining forces to scour the area.
Drones, dive teams, and K-9 units were deployed in a desperate attempt to locate her. Tragically, on Tuesday morning, recovery teams discovered her body downstream from the camp, confirming the fears of her family, friends, and the greater Houston and Hill Country communities.
Mary Kate was a bright and beloved student at a Houston-area high school, known for her vibrant personality, strong faith, and deep friendships. She was active in her church youth group and had attended Camp Mystic for several summers, where she formed lasting bonds with campers and counselors alike.
Her passing has shaken not just those who knew her, but countless families who have entrusted their children to summer camps in the area. In a statement, her family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and for the tireless efforts of the first responders and volunteers who searched for her.
“Mary Kate brought light into every room she entered,” the statement read. “We are heartbroken, but we are also thankful to have her back and to begin the process of laying her to rest surrounded by love.”
Camp Mystic also issued a statement mourning the loss of Mary Kate, calling her “a cherished member of our camp family” and offering support to all campers and staff affected by the tragedy.
The Hill Country region continues to recover from the destructive floods, which caused damage to homes, roads, and camp facilities throughout Kerr County and surrounding areas. Authorities are urging caution as rivers remain swollen and cleanup efforts are ongoing.
As the community grieves, vigils and memorial services are being planned in both Houston and Kerr County to honor Mary Kate’s life and legacy. Those who wish to support the Jacobe family during this time are encouraged to contribute to verified fundraisers or support efforts organized by her church and school.
Mary Kate Jacobe will be remembered for her joyful spirit, kindness, and the lasting impact she made in her short but meaningful life.
