Brian Trascher, spokesperson for the United Cajun Navy, joins the show to provide an update on the flood disaster in Texas. As of now, eight youth campers and 42 civilians are still missing, with 11 bodies recovered by the unit's K9 teams. Trascher emphasized that the number of missing could rise, as some individuals may not have been reported due to isolation or lack of family connections. The death toll has surpassed 100 and is expected to increase.
The United Cajun Navy, known for its disaster response efforts, deployed rapidly after receiving alerts during a leadership summit in Grand Isle. Congressman Clay Higgins contacted Trascher to coordinate resources, leading to the deployment of airboat teams from San Antonio. The initial response included four boats with 4–5 trained personnel each, including swift water and search and rescue experts. Ground teams with canines and drone units followed, although drone use has been restricted due to FAA-imposed flight restrictions.
Trascher described the physical conditions as challenging, with rivers in Kerrville calming but other areas still experiencing rising waters. The terrain has created pond-like valleys, complicating search efforts. He explained the difference between storm surges and the kinetic flood waves seen here, which are more destructive due to their speed and force.Despite the devastation, Trascher praised the swift and efficient state and federal response, contrasting it with past disasters. The United Cajun Navy is acting as a support force, attending daily briefings and remaining on-site until authorities deem their presence unnecessary. The vast area affected, including the Guadalupe River stretching to the Gulf of Mexico, presents ongoing challenges in locating victims and managing debris.