Authorities have confirmed that the body of 10-year-old Devah Woods, who was swept away by sudden floodwaters in Brenham, Texas, has been recovered. Devah disappeared on the afternoon of Monday, May 5, while walking home from school with her sister near Fireman’s Park. Rising water from a nearby creek surged across the road, separating the two girls. Devah’s sister escaped to safety and sought help, prompting a large-scale rescue effort.
Rescue crews from over a dozen local and state agencies worked through the night, battling darkness, debris, and additional rainfall. Despite their tireless efforts, the search ended in heartbreak Tuesday morning when Devah’s body was discovered approximately 1.2 miles downstream from where she was last seen.
Devah was a third grader at Brenham Elementary School, known for her bright spirit and kind heart. Brenham ISD has made grief counselors available to students and staff, and the community has come together in support of the Woods family.
Mayor Atwood Kenjura expressed the collective sorrow of the city, stating, “In Brenham, we are a close community. When one of us suffers, we all feel it.”
This devastating loss serves as a somber reminder of how quickly flash flooding can turn tragic. Officials urge all residents to remain vigilant and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, no matter how shallow they appear.