**KERRVILLE, TX – July 15, 2025** — The Texas Hill Country mourns the devastating loss of Leonardo Romero Sr., his partner Natalia Venzor, and their 1-year-old son Carlos Romero, who were found deceased following the catastrophic Fourth of July floods that ravaged Kerrville. The violent surge of the Guadalupe River tore their home from its foundation, leaving behind a trail of destruction and heartbreak. This young family’s story has become one of the most poignant tragedies of the disaster, a stark reminder of nature’s unrelenting power.

The sole survivor, 18-year-old Leonardo Romero Jr., was miraculously rescued from the wreckage and hospitalized. His survival is a testament to resilience, but the weight of losing his father, stepmother, and baby brother is an unimaginable burden for the young man.

**A Family Swept Away
In the predawn hours of July 4, torrential rains unleashed chaos across Kerr County, transforming the serene Guadalupe River into a raging force. The Romero-Venzor family, like many others, had little time to react as floodwaters engulfed their home near the river’s edge. By 6:15 a.m., their house was swept away, splintered by the relentless current.

Leonardo Romero Sr., 43, and Natalia Venzor, 24, were a devoted couple, building a life filled with love and hope for their young son, Carlos. The 1-year-old, described by family as a joyful light, was just beginning to explore the world. Originally from San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Leonardo and Natalia had made Kerrville their home, where they were known for their warmth and dedication to family. Leonardo Jr., a student at Schreiner University, was the eldest son, a young man on the cusp of adulthood whose life was forever altered in moments.

**A Miraculous Survival Amid Tragedy
Leonardo Jr. was awake that fateful morning, playing video games when he heard water seeping through the floorboards. As the floodwaters surged, his father urged him and Natalia to climb onto a couch and grab the curtains while he held Carlos above the rising water. Despite their efforts, the family was torn apart by the deluge. Leonardo Jr. was found trapped in debris, clinging to life, and was rushed to Peterson Regional Medical Center in Kerrville. He spoke to reporters from his hospital bed, recounting the terror of the moment he thought he would die.

On July 14, family members confirmed the heartbreaking news that the bodies of Leonardo Sr., Natalia, and Carlos had been recovered. Social media posts from relatives and news outlets in Mexico and Texas shared the grim update, noting that the family, originally from Guanajuato, had been found after nine days of relentless searching. A GoFundMe organized by Natalia’s sister to cover funeral costs described her as a kind-hearted soul who worked tirelessly to support her family, underscoring the deep loss felt by those who knew her.

**A Community in Mourning
The Kerrville floods, which claimed at least 132 lives and left over 100 people missing, have left the community reeling. The Romero-Venzor family’s tragedy is one of many, with stories of loss emerging from Camp Mystic, where 27 campers and staff perished, and from families camping along the river. Governor Greg Abbott has pledged ongoing search efforts, and the community has rallied with memorials and fundraisers to honor the victims.

The family’s home was one of many structures obliterated by the Guadalupe River’s unprecedented surge, fueled by rainfall that far exceeded forecasts. As Kerrville begins the long process of recovery, the story of Leonardo, Natalia, and Carlos serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of community in the face of grief.

**A Call for Remembrance
The Romero-Venzor family’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and togetherness. As Kerrville grieves, the community is called to honor their memory—not only for the tragedy of their loss but for the vibrant lives they led. Leonardo Jr., now facing an uncertain future, will need the support of those around him to navigate this profound sorrow. In their memory, let us hold fast to the bonds of family and community, lifting them up in prayer and action as Kerrville begins to heal.