Tragic Flood Escape Ends in Loss for Texas Family
A long drive took a wrong turn in the dark, leading a Texas family into a deadly flood. The early hours of July 5, 2025, became a nightmare as central Texas faced devastating floods.
Malaya’s Brave Act Saves Siblings
Seventeen-year-old Malaya Grace Hammond acted quickly to save her younger siblings and a friend. She sacrificed her own life in the process. The family left Marble Falls around 4:30 a.m. in a van. Alongside Malaya were her parents, Matthew and Liz, and siblings Khalil (16), Surya (13), and Surya’s friend Opal (14). They were driving to a summer camp in the Ozarks.
Wrong Turn Leads to Disaster
After seeing flooded routes on weather maps, the family changed course. Minutes later, their van crossed a collapsed bridge. Matthew tried to stop, but the vehicle plunged into the river. As the water rose, the family sang “Rise and Shine, and Give God the Glory.” Matthew told everyone to roll down the windows. Malaya opened the sliding door, helping the kids escape.
