The water kept rising with terrifying speed. Eventually, the force of the flood ripped their trailer in half. His mother, Christinia, and the two kids managed to escape onto the roof and were rescued, but Julian was gone. His body wasn’t recovered until later that morning after the waters receded in Kerr County.
“He was the best father, and was always such a happy person who was never above helping people, no matter what it cost,” Wilson said. Ryan’s family and friends say they will never forget his bravery. His sister, Connie Salas, called him a true hero. “He died a hero. That will never go unnoticed,” she told the Mirror.
On a GoFundMe page that has raised over $25,000, his grieving family wrote, “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the unexpected and tragic passing of our beloved Julian Ryan on July 4th, 2025.
Julian gave his life for his family, passing as a true hero. While we are eternally grateful for his sacrifice, we are shattered by our loss. His sudden departure has left an unfillable void in all our lives.”
The tribute further read, “He was known to have an infectious laugh and unwavering kindness. He touched countless lives with his humor and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
As the community mourns Julian’s selfless sacrifice, the tragedy of the flash flood is still unfolding.
Officials confirmed at least 43 people were killed, including 15 children. As many as 22 girls from the Christian summer retreat Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams described battling “a very harsh environment” to save stranded campers, some of whom had climbed trees to escape the torrent.
Meanwhile, Texas authorities faced tough questions about why residents and summer camps along the river weren’t warned in time or told to evacuate.
Officials insisted they hadn’t anticipated such an intense deluge, saying it was the equivalent of several months’ rain falling in just hours.
