Who is Lila Bonner? Texas flood victim at Camp Mystic, who had a dream of opening an animal rescue

The devastating floods swept through the Texas Hill Country on July 4, 2025, leaving at least 119 people dead statewide, with the bulk of deaths reported in Kerr County, where the toll reached 95. Meanwhile, officials said over 150 people were still missing. The people who lost their lives in floods included several young campers at Camp Mystic.

Among the Camp Mystic campers who died was 9-year-old Lila Bonner, who died with her best friend and Camp Mystic cabinmate, Eloise Peck. The two had recently finished second grade at Bradfield Elementary, according to news station KDFW.

Bonner, whose family described her as a natural-born leader and an animal lover, had a dream of opening an animal rescue before the devastating Hill County floods took her life.


"Lila was a natural-born leader who loved all creatures, big and small,” Bonner's family said in a GoFundMe. “Her confidence and determination left no doubt she would one day fulfill her dream of opening and operating an animal rescue,” the family added.

The girl, according to the family, had an electric smile and soulful eyes. She was one of 27 campers and counsellors who perished at Camp Mystic in Hunt.

The catastrophic floods occurred in the early hours of July 4, 2025. Floodwaters quickly overtook the all-Christian, all-girls camp when the nearby Guadalupe River rose by 22 feet in just a few hours. Lila Bonner’s body was found, her family confirmed in a statement, according to media reports.

Lila’s Light Foundation to fulfill girl’s dreams

Lila’s Light Foundation, an animal care initiative, will work to realize the North Texas girl’s dream of caring for creatures who are devastated by natural disasters like the one that killed her.

“While Lila’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy and story will not end there. We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for our beautiful and precious girl and look forward to honoring her love for animals by creating a foundation, Lila’s Light, to help animals affected by natural disasters—just as she would have wanted,” the Bonner family said.

“While we are still in the process of setting up her foundation, please trust that no funds will be for expenses. Our aim is to help ensure her legacy—and radiant light—continues to shine,” the family further stated

The fundraiser has so far collected over $407,975 USD and aims to raise $450,000. Milliard Diamond Concierge, a Dallas-based jewelry company, is also selling a 14k yellow gold cross pendant in honor of Lila Bonner. All proceeds will go towards Lila’s Light.