BRENHAM, Texas – A heartbreaking outcome has followed the tireless efforts of more than a dozen agencies searching for a 10-year-old girl swept away by floodwaters during Monday’s severe storms.
The child, identified as Devah Woods, a third-grade student at Brenham Elementary School, was found deceased Tuesday morning. According to officials, Devah and her sister were walking home from school near Fireman’s Park when a nearby creek rapidly rose due to intense rainfall. Her sister was able to escape and call for help, but Devah was swept away by the fast-moving water.
The incident triggered a massive search and rescue operation involving the City of Brenham Fire Department, Washington County Search and Rescue, Texas Task Force 1, and numerous other local and state agencies. Throughout the night and into the early morning hours, rescue crews used drones equipped with thermal imaging, canine search units, and swift water teams to scour the creek banks and surrounding areas. The search resumed at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, and Devah’s body was recovered just before 10:00 a.m.
Brenham ISD released a statement early Tuesday morning confirming that a student was missing and that counseling and support services would be available for students and staff. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, further personal details were initially withheld.
“Our hearts are with Devah’s family,” the district said in a statement. “We ask the community to lift them up in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Brenham Police Chief Ron Parker also extended condolences, thanking the dozens of first responders and volunteers who supported the search. “This is not the outcome anyone hoped for,” he said. “But we are thankful we were able to bring Devah home to her family.”
Heavy storms swept across much of Central and Southeast Texas on Monday, bringing torrential rain and triggering flash flood warnings. In Brenham, low-lying areas flooded rapidly, catching many off guard and overwhelming storm drainage systems.
The community has come together in mourning, with neighbors leaving flowers and messages of support near the park and school where Devah was last seen. Many are sharing memories of the bright, kind-hearted young girl known for her smile and energy.
This tragedy is a painful reminder of the dangers floodwaters pose—even in familiar places. Authorities continue to urge families to avoid walking or driving through high water during storms.
HTX News extends our deepest condolences to the Woods family, Brenham ISD, and the entire Brenham community. We will continue to provide updates as memorial arrangements are shared.
Join The Discussion!
Comments