Local News
Heart O’ the Hills Camp director Jane Ragsdale dead following devastating floods in Texas
KERRVILLE, Texas — Channel2 NOW has learned the tragic death of Jane Ragsdale, longtime camp director at Heart O’ the Hills Camp in Hunt, Texas, following Friday’s devastating flash flooding.
Ragsdale, a beloved figure in the camping community, had deep roots at Heart O’ the Hills. She began her journey there as a camper and counselor in the 1970s, later becoming a co-owner of the camp in 1976.
She served as program director before assuming the role of camp director in 1988, a position she held for decades.
Described as “the heart and soul” of Heart O’ the Hills, Ragsdale was widely respected and admired for her leadership and dedication to youth development.
Her contributions were recognized nationally: she was the recipient of the Pioneer Trailblazer Award from the Pioneer Alumni Association in 2022, and the Speedy Altman Award, a prestigious lifetime achievement honor from the Camp Owners and Directors Association.
Ragsdale’s death comes amid a broader tragedy.
As of Friday evening, officials have confirmed 13 fatalities and at least 20 individuals remain unaccounted for due to catastrophic flooding in the Kerrville and surrounding Hill Country region.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing.
The loss of Jane Ragsdale is being felt deeply throughout the local community and the national network of camp professionals she helped shape.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.