8-Year-Old Missing After Texas Floodwaters Sweep Her Away, Dad Killed in Tragic Incident
(Image: Will Robinson/Facebook)
The search continues for an 8-year-old Oklahoma girl swept away in floodwaters on Christmas Eve, along with her family, after their SUV was caught in a drainage ditch near U.S. 75 and Taylor Street in Sherman, Texas. The tragedy unfolded around 9:30 a.m. when the vehicle, driven by the girl’s father, Will Robinson, was overwhelmed by strong currents.
Will Robinson, a highly respected high school coach from Durant, Oklahoma, did not survive the incident. Four other family members were rescued, while the young girl remains missing. By Christmas Day, the search effort, supported by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s approval of state search and rescue teams, expanded beyond Sherman to lower regions of Post Oak and Choctaw creeks according to KXII News 12.
Search crews covered approximately seven miles of the creek by 2 p.m. without success and shifted efforts to new areas in the county, continuing until nightfall. Plans were made to resume the search early Thursday morning.
The Sherman Police Department has urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this unimaginable time. “When we have an update to this case that we can share, we will let everyone know,” the department wrote on social media.
The department has also asked the public to refrain from delivering snacks, beverages, and other supplies, as these gestures, though appreciated, have hindered the search efforts. Instead, they encourage anyone with “noteworthy” information about the girl’s whereabouts to contact their non-emergency line at 903-892-7290.
This tragic event has drawn the sympathy of the Sherman community, located just north of Fort Worth and Dallas. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly, aided by state resources, as the family and community cling to hope for the girl’s safe recovery.
Robinson, known for his dedication to his students and athletes, leaves behind a legacy of positive impact on his community. The family’s loss, compounded by the ongoing search for their missing daughter, has touched the hearts of many, highlighting the dangers posed by severe weather and floodwaters.
As the search continues, the family has requested privacy and support from the community, who await updates with heavy hearts.
