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Twelve Lives Lost, One Still Unnamed: San Antonio United in Grief After Deadly Flash Flooding

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SAN ANTONIO, TX – June 15, 2025 — Heartbreak reverberates across the greater San Antonio region as the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office confirms the identities of 12 of the 13 victims who tragically lost their lives in catastrophic flash flooding over the weekend. The lives lost include: Derwin Anderson, 43; Roseann Cobb, 41; Carlos Valdez III, 67; Martha De La Torre Rangel, 55; Victor Manuel Macias Castro, 28; Matthew Angel Tufono, 51; Christine Gonzalez, 29; Rudy Garza, 61; Josue Pinadelatorre, 28; Andrew Sanchez, 60; Brett Riley, 63; and Stevie Richards, 42. The lone remaining victim has yet to be publicly identified as next of kin are still being notified.

Torrential rainfall that began late Friday night and continued into the early hours of Saturday created a perfect storm of hazardous conditions. Roads turned into rivers, storm drains failed to keep up, and low-lying areas became death traps for unsuspecting residents. Emergency crews conducted numerous rescues, but tragically, not all could be saved.

A Community Shattered

Each of the 12 identified victims was more than a statistic — they were family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. Their sudden passing has devastated entire communities and brought the harsh reality of nature’s wrath to the doorstep of San Antonio.

Derwin Anderson, 43, lost his life near the Callaghan and Hwy 90 area. Derwin was a devoted father and high school football coach who was beloved by his students. On Friday night, he had been on his way home after attending a school athletic banquet when floodwaters engulfed the underpass he was driving through.

Roseann Cobb, 41, was found in the Wurzbach Parkway area. A respected educator and mother of two, she had spent her life uplifting others through her work in special education. Friends recall her constant smile and tireless advocacy for children with disabilities.

The other ten victims were discovered in the area of Loop 410 and Perrin Beitel Road, a location that became ground zero for flash flooding as rushing waters overtook cars, parking lots, and sidewalks in minutes.

Carlos Valdez III, 67, a Vietnam veteran and retired postal worker, was remembered as a steady, gentle soul who never missed Sunday church. He had reportedly exited his vehicle to assist another stranded driver when he was swept away.

Martha De La Torre Rangel, 55, worked for decades as a nurse at a local hospital. Her colleagues and patients say she was selfless, dependable, and nurturing to all. She had just completed a double shift and was driving home when her vehicle became submerged.

Victor Manuel Macias Castro, 28, was a single father known for his fierce love for his daughter and his talent as a tattoo artist. He had only recently opened his own studio and was said to have an infectious laugh and deep empathy for others.

Matthew Angel Tufono, 51, was a local music teacher and percussionist who performed with various community ensembles. His former students say he changed lives not just through music, but through his constant encouragement.

Christine Gonzalez, 29, was a software engineer and passionate advocate for Latina women in tech. She was a rising star in her field and was scheduled to speak at a women’s empowerment conference this month.

Rudy Garza, 61, was a lifelong mechanic who could fix just about anything. Known affectionately as “Pops” in his neighborhood, Rudy often helped single mothers and elderly residents with car troubles at no charge.

Josue Pinadelatorre, 28, had recently moved back to San Antonio to help his aging parents. A passionate cyclist and outdoor enthusiast, he was likely trying to reach high ground on foot when the water overpowered him.

Andrew Sanchez, 60, was known for his devotion to his church, his garden, and his three grandchildren. Neighbors recall his kindness and steady presence on their block.

Brett Riley, 63, a recently retired nature photographer, had a special talent for capturing the Texas Hill Country’s most vibrant landscapes. He had gone out that evening to document the storm’s aftermath but never returned.

Stevie Richards, 42, was a single mom who worked two jobs to support her two children. She was described as “fiercely loyal, endlessly strong, and full of love.” Her children are now in the care of extended family.

A City Comes Together

To honor those lost and stand beside grieving families, a community vigil is scheduled for Monday, June 16 at 7:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Lake Park. The candlelight gathering will feature faith leaders, city officials, and mental health professionals, offering both remembrance and resources. The event is open to all who wish to pay their respects.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg issued a heartfelt statement Sunday:

“The loss of these 12 lives in such a short span of time is beyond devastating. These were mothers, fathers, friends, and neighbors. Our city mourns with their families, and we commit to doing everything we can to support them through the road ahead.”

Relief Efforts Underway

The Bexar County Emergency Relief Fund has been activated, accepting donations to assist victims’ families with funeral costs, housing, and counseling services. Additionally, San Antonio Fire and Rescue, along with CPS Energy and SAWS, are still working to stabilize affected areas and restore essential services.

One Still Unnamed

As authorities continue the difficult task of notifying family members of the final victim, residents are urged to check in on friends and loved ones and report anyone still missing.

This tragedy has underscored the unpredictable power of nature and the need for vigilance in the face of extreme weather. But it has also shown the resilience and compassion that defines San Antonio. In the coming days and weeks, it will be that unity — and the memory of those lost — that guides the city toward healing.

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