San Antonio, TX — Medical Examiner Confirms Identities of Victims as Death Toll Rises to Nine in Devastating Flood
San Antonio, TX — Medical Examiner Confirms Identities of Victims as Death Toll Rises to Nine in Devastating Flood
San Antonio continues to mourn as the city grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic flood that swept through the region on Friday afternoon, June 6, 2025. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has officially confirmed the identities of three of the victims, as the death toll tragically climbs to nine. The floodwaters left a trail of devastation and sorrow throughout the city, impacting families, neighborhoods, and the broader community. Recovery and search operations remain ongoing as emergency responders work tirelessly to find those still missing and assist those affected.
Names of the Confirmed Victims
Authorities have confirmed the following individuals among those who lost their lives in the flood:
- Victor Manuel Macias Castro, 28
- Matthew Angel Tufono, 51
- Martha De La Torre Rangel, 55
These names represent just a portion of the lives cut short by the floodwaters, which surged unexpectedly through streets, homes, and public spaces in a matter of hours, leaving communities in shock.
The Devastating Flood Event
On the afternoon of June 6, San Antonio experienced torrential rains that overwhelmed drainage systems and caused multiple waterways to rise rapidly. The flooding was particularly severe in low-lying areas and neighborhoods near rivers and creeks, where water levels rose dramatically within minutes.
Local meteorologists reported that the volume of rain exceeded forecasts, and the intensity caught many residents off guard. What started as a heavy rainstorm quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation. The floodwaters surged through streets, sweeping vehicles, debris, and unfortunately, residents who were unable to evacuate in time.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
From the moment the flooding began, San Antonio’s first responders sprang into action. Firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, and volunteers mobilized rapidly to respond to distress calls. Swift water rescue teams were deployed to navigate submerged roads and waterways, rescuing trapped individuals and transporting them to safety.
Emergency operations centers were activated to coordinate resources, issue warnings, and provide shelter information. Despite these efforts, the sheer scale of the flooding challenged responders’ ability to reach all affected areas immediately.
The Search for Missing Persons Continues
As the floodwaters recede, search and rescue teams continue to comb through waterways, debris, and damaged structures in hopes of locating missing residents. The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with state and federal agencies, has expanded the search radius to include reservoirs, rivers, and drainage canals.
Local officials have urged residents to report any information about missing loved ones and to exercise caution when navigating flood-affected areas, where hazards such as unstable ground, hidden currents, and debris persist.
Impact on the Community
The flood has left lasting scars on the city. Hundreds of homes have been damaged or destroyed, businesses remain closed, and many families have been displaced. Community centers, schools, and places of worship have opened their doors to provide shelter, meals, and emotional support.
Residents express profound sadness for those who have perished, including the three individuals whose identities were released, and hold out hope for the safe return of others. The flood’s sudden onset and severity have left many struggling to come to terms with the scale of loss.
Personal Stories of Loss and Survival
Among the many affected, stories of survival and tragedy abound. Some residents narrowly escaped rising waters, describing harrowing moments as they climbed to rooftops or clung to trees. Others were not as fortunate, caught by swift currents or trapped in their homes.
Local community leaders have been working to document these stories, not only to honor the victims but also to understand the flood’s dynamics and improve future preparedness.
The Role of the Bexar County Medical Examiner
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has been working diligently to identify the deceased and provide closure to families. Through forensic analysis, including dental records, DNA testing, and personal effects, they have confirmed several identities. Their work is crucial in assisting law enforcement investigations and ensuring proper notifications to next of kin.
Officials have stressed the sensitive nature of these efforts and ask for the public’s respect as they continue their work.
Weather and Environmental Factors Contributing to the Flood
Experts point to a combination of factors that contributed to the severity of the flooding. Intense rainfall within a short period overwhelmed natural and man-made drainage systems. Urban development has reduced natural floodplains and increased surface runoff, exacerbating water accumulation.
Climate scientists suggest that weather patterns linked to climate change are making extreme rainfall events more frequent and intense, posing challenges for cities like San Antonio to adapt infrastructure and emergency planning.
City Officials and Leadership Respond
San Antonio city officials have declared a state of emergency and are coordinating with state and federal agencies to mobilize resources for recovery and rebuilding. The mayor addressed the public with messages of condolence and resilience, emphasizing unity and collective strength.
Local government has pledged financial aid, disaster relief funding, and assistance programs for affected residents. Plans are underway to review infrastructure vulnerabilities and invest in flood mitigation projects.
Support from Regional and National Organizations
The flood has drawn attention from regional aid organizations, nonprofits, and federal emergency agencies. Groups specializing in disaster response have arrived to provide aid, including temporary housing, food distribution, medical care, and counseling services.
Fundraising efforts and community drives are in progress to support those displaced by the disaster and to assist families of the victims.
Mental Health and Community Healing
Recognizing the emotional toll of the flood, mental health professionals have been deployed to provide crisis counseling and support for survivors and first responders alike. Trauma from such sudden and devastating events can have lasting effects, and community outreach efforts emphasize the importance of mental wellness.
Faith leaders, social workers, and volunteers are organizing vigils and memorials to honor those who perished, creating spaces for collective mourning and hope.
The Road Ahead: Recovery and Resilience
As waters recede and life begins to return to normal, San Antonio faces the long and challenging path of recovery. Rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, and helping displaced families will require sustained effort and resources.
Lessons learned from this disaster are expected to inform future emergency planning and urban development policies to reduce vulnerability to flooding.
How Residents Can Help
Community members are encouraged to support recovery efforts through volunteerism, donations, and participation in rebuilding projects. Staying informed about emergency preparedness and flood safety can also empower individuals to protect themselves and their families in future events.
Local organizations have set up donation centers and hotlines to coordinate aid and volunteer opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The tragic flood in San Antonio serves as a sobering reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis. The names of the victims—Victor Manuel Macias Castro, Matthew Angel Tufono, and Martha De La Torre Rangel—are emblematic of the lives deeply affected by this disaster.
As San Antonio mourns, it also looks toward rebuilding with renewed determination and care for its citizens, honoring those lost by striving to create a safer, stronger city for all.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance, the city has established support hotlines and resources available 24/7. In times like these, no one should face hardship alone.
