As recovery efforts continue following the devastating July 4 flash flood in Texas, residents of northwest Travis County say they’ve been abandoned by local and state authorities. While most deaths occurred in Kerr County, seven people have been confirmed dead and another seven remain missing in Travis County’s unincorporated Big Sandy Creek neighborhood—an area left without warnings, aid, or essential services.
Residents, many of whom are seniors without insurance, report receiving no emergency alerts before floodwaters swept through the area. Auburne Gallagher, a local resident, took to social media to raise awareness, calling her community the “unwanted stepchildren” of Travis County. “We are human. We pay taxes out here. Don’t treat us like this,” she pleaded.
According to Gallagher, evacuation efforts were grassroots—neighbors helping neighbors—with no official assistance until after the destruction. Travis County Sheriff’s deputies reportedly didn’t arrive until Saturday morning, well after the flood struck. Many homes were destroyed, and residents were left without power or clean water.
Austin-Travis County EMS says it rescued at least 25 people and that search teams using drones and boats are actively combing through debris. Still, many residents say the response is disjointed, with no central communication or support system. Local officials have directed victims to the Red Cross, while some families rely on social media and word-of-mouth to locate missing loved ones and seek aid.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management has now taken over incident management. Seven victims have been confirmed dead, with seven still unaccounted for. Utility restoration and bridge repairs are underway, and road closures remain in effect.
Locals continue demanding answers and assistance. “No one’s telling us anything,” said resident Miranda Basey. “We’re basically on our own.”
