A man in Texas (USA) died while trying to save all his relatives in the terrible flash flood. Before passing away, he left a message that touched many people.

Man who saved family from flash flood apologizes before dying

Julian Ryan died at the age of 27 in the early morning of July 4 (local time), after floodwaters from the Guadalupe River rose 9m above normal water level, flooding his family’s home in the town of Ingram (Texas, USA).

The sudden flood, caused by heavy rains that lasted all night, caught the people living along the river off guard. According to Christinia Wilson – Julian Ryan’s fiancee – in just 20 minutes, the water in her house rose to her knees.

“The water kept pouring in, we struggled to close the door, trying to keep the door from letting too much water in. Then we ran into the room to call the police, while the water kept rising. We had no choice but to escape,” she said.

GoFundMe photo of Julian Ryan, who saved his family from Texas flooding but died following the rescue. The text begins: Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers, It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the unexpected and tragic passing of our beloved Julian Ryan on July 4th, 2025. Julian, his fianc?, kids, and mother were awakened when water came rushing into their home. Julian jumped into action to protect and save his family and get them to safety. Julian gave his life for his family, passing as a true hero. While his family is eternally grateful for his sacrifice, they are shattered by their loss. Julian was a beloved son, father, fianc?, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to so many, and his sudden departure has left an unfillable void in all our lives. Julian was a cherished son and devoted parent and fianc? who was dedicated to his family. He was known to have an infectious laugh and unwavering kindness. He touched countless lives with his humor and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Brave man sacrifices himself to save his family (Photo: Daily Mail).

In a last ditch effort, Julian Ryan smashed a window to help his fiancée, children and mother climb onto the roof. The broken glass cut deep into his arm, severing an artery and nearly severing his arm.

“It was almost completely severed,” Christinia Wilson choked up as she spoke about her fiancé’s injuries.

Despite being seriously injured, Julian Ryan still fought hard to bring his family to safety. However, rescuers could not reach his family in time and Julian Ryan breathed his last.

“Around 6am, my fiancé passed away from blood loss. He looked at me, looked at his children and his mother and said, ‘I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love you all,’” Christinia Wilson cried.

Julian Ryan’s family said he was a kind, generous and caring person. His courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Julian Ryan and family in a selfie.

Julian Ryan’s family (Photo: Daily Mail).

Christinia Wilson also believes that there needs to be changes in the flood warning system. They believe that if there had been an early warning siren, many people could have been saved.

“If we had heard the sirens, we would have left. We have so many safe places to go,” she said.

The flood devastated a summer camp (Photo: Daily Mail).

According to  CNN , as of the afternoon of July 6, 27 children at a summer camp located on the Guadalupe River called Camp Mystic were still missing.

Images from the scene showed the camp nearly leveled. Beds, mattresses, and blankets were soaked and covered in mud, and personal belongings were strewn about. A roof had collapsed, and splintered wooden planks were strewn about.

At least three children died when floodwaters rushed into the camp while they were sleeping. Dozens of others, including children and staff, are still unaccounted for.