A 17-year-old girl tragically lost her life in the recent Texas floods, but not before ensuring the safety of her family. Malaya Hammond was en route to a Christian summer camp with her family early Saturday morning when their van was swept off a bridge by the floodwaters into Marble Falls, as reported by family friend Mikki Willis on social media.
In the midst of the chaos, Malaya managed to open the van door, allowing her parents, Liz and Matthew, and her younger siblings, Khalil, 16, and Surya, 14, to escape what could have been a fatal entrapment underwater. Despite their efforts to stay afloat in the darkness, Malaya was carried away by the powerful current.
The family, devastated by the loss, searched tirelessly for Malaya. Their efforts spanned day and night, covering land, air, and water. Unfortunately, the search ended in heartbreak when Malaya’s body was discovered two days later on Monday.
The loss has left the family grappling with immense grief. Willis, in his social media post, described the situation as “unthinkable.” The bridge where the incident occurred, Cow Creek bridge over Rt. 1431, is located in the Texas Hill Country northwest of Austin.
Malaya, being the eldest child, was a role model in her family. Willis described her as “one of the most gentle, compassionate young women” anyone could meet. Her heroic act in the face of danger is a testament to her character.
In the wake of the tragedy, an online fundraiser has been set up to support the family. As of Friday morning, the fundraiser has collected over $144,000. The outpouring of support from the community is a testament to the impact Malaya had on those around her.