The search for approximately 160 missing individuals in the Texas Hill Country has entered its eleventh night, as ongoing adverse weather conditions continue to hinder recovery efforts. Despite these daunting challenges, search and rescue teams remain committed to locating and recovering victims of the catastrophic floods that devastated the region.
Missing Person: Sara Beatriz Padgett Still Missing Since April 2, 2025
What Happened?
Over the past week, severe flash flooding in the Texas Hill Country has led to widespread destruction and the tragic disappearance of many residents. The flooding, fueled by relentless rainfall, caused the Guadalupe River to rise rapidly, sweeping away entire communities and leaving a trail of debris and devastation.
Rescue crews are now facing treacherous conditions, including heavy rain, strong currents, and debris-laden waterways, which have complicated and delayed ongoing search and recovery operations.
Who Is Manolo Acevedo?
Among the dedicated searchers is Manolo Acevedo, a key member of the Protekione Civil team, a specialized rescue group working tirelessly to locate and recover victims. Acevedo and his team, equipped with ATVs, boats, and search dogs, have focused their efforts along the debris-filled Guadalupe River.
“When it rains, the river rises,” Acevedo explained, describing how surging water levels have repeatedly forced the team to suspend their search for safety. Despite these setbacks, he emphasized that they remain determined to continue until every missing person is accounted for.
Timeline and Search Efforts
The massive search operation began shortly after the floods struck, displacing families and cutting off entire neighborhoods. Each passing day has brought new obstacles, as ongoing rainstorms have hampered visibility and made it difficult for crews to access certain areas.
Nonetheless, multiple teams—including Protekione Civil and local rescue agencies—have pressed on, combing the riverbanks and nearby areas for any sign of the missing. Their dedication underscores the gravity of the tragedy and the urgent need to bring closure to affected families.
Community and Social Media Response
In the wake of this disaster, the Texas Hill Country community has come together in an outpouring of support. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of solidarity and offers of assistance.
Artist Roberto Marquez has led a moving memorial project to honor the lives lost. Marquez has hand-crafted 148 wooden crosses, which are currently displayed at Guadalupe Park. Each cross bears a message of love and remembrance, and more crosses are being added as the search continues.
A note at the memorial reads, “United in Love for the Texas Hill Country,” capturing the spirit of resilience and unity that has defined the community’s response.
Official Statements and Next Steps
Roberto Marquez shared his hope that the growing memorial would become a sacred space for families and community members to grieve and find comfort together. “It becomes a sacred place for everyone and unites us in our grief and hope,” Marquez said.
Meanwhile, search crews have pledged to persist despite worsening weather conditions, prioritizing the safe recovery of all missing individuals. In addition to recovery efforts, teams are also working to clear debris and assess ongoing hazards in affected areas.
Conclusion
The Texas Hill Country faces an incredibly difficult chapter as it grapples with the loss of life and widespread devastation. While the road to recovery will be long, the unwavering dedication of search crews and the strength of community support continue to provide hope.
This is a developing story. Please stay tuned for updates, and contact local authorities for the most current information regarding recovery efforts.
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