NEED TO KNOW
- Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck are among the girls from Camp Mystic in Texas who died after floodwaters swept through the area on Friday, July 4
- The two girls reportedly just finished the second grade at Bradfield Elementary in Highland Park
- “Eloise was literally friends with everyone. She loved spaghetti but not more than she loved dogs and animals,” her mom said
Two best friends are among the kids who died at a camp in Texas when flooding swept through the area on the Fourth of July, according to local news outlets and their families.
Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck died after Camp Mystic was inundated by the rain-swollen floodwaters on the morning of Friday, July 4, FOX affiliate KDFW and NBC affiliate KXAS reported. Lila’s death was also confirmed to PEOPLE by her relatives.
She and Eloise reportedly were close friends who just finished the second grade at Bradfield Elementary in Highland Park, according to KDFW.
They were attending the all-girls camp together when the fatal flood struck.
Missy Peck, Eloise’s mom, told KDFW that her 8-year-old daughter was cabinmates with Lila.
“Eloise was literally friends with everyone. She loved spaghetti but not more than she loved dogs and animals,” Missy said.
She later added, “Eloise had a family who loved her fiercely for the 8 years she was with us. Especially her Mommy.”
In a separate statement, Eloise’s family said, “It is with a heavy heart that I let you know that Eloise Peck has been found and is now an angel,” according to KXAS.
In a statement to PEOPLE, shared on Saturday, July 5, Lila’s family said they were “heartbroken to confirm the news of her loss. In the midst of our unimaginable grief, we ask for privacy and are unable to confirm any details at this time.”
“We ache with all who loved her and are praying endlessly for others to be spared from this tragic loss,” they added.
Families were scheduled to place ribbons in parts of the community on Sunday, July 6, to honor both Lila and Eloise, according to KXAS.
The Highland Park school district superintendent, Dr. Mike Rockwood, said in a statement that many of their students were affected by the floods.
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“In the midst of this pain, we are incredibly moved by the outpouring of love and support from our churches, families, and broader community,” Rockwood said, according to KXAS. “Your compassion and care have been a source of strength in these difficult hours.”
“Please continue to keep all those impacted in your thoughts and prayers,” the superintendent concluded. “We will share any appropriate updates as they become available, and we remain committed to supporting our students, staff, and families through this challenging time.”
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