NOTE: The above video is from previous coverage of the Swiftwater Rescue Team’s mission in Kerr County, Texas.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Despite ongoing difficulties in Kerr County, Texas, the eight-person Swiftwater Rescue Team with the Virginia Beach Fire Department said they remain “highly motivated.”
Virginia Beach Fire Department’s Swiftwater Rescue Team deploys to Texas for flood assistance
The crew was dispatched to the county on Sunday, July 6 to assist in searching for the missing individuals in the wake of the deadly flash floods, which have killed at least 120 people. 10 On Your Side’s Andy Fox spoke with Battalion Chief Jeff Smith on Thursday, where he said progress on locating bodies is “very slow.”
Swiftwater Rescue Team leader gives update on efforts underway in Texas
“We’re methodically working through all the debris, the brush,” Smith said. “We got to deal with the animal life that comes across the water, which is still moving somewhat fast, so we got to keep that in consideration, too.”
In a Facebook post the following day, July 12, the team stated that, while the terrain has become increasingly dangerous to traverse, they are maintaining steady progress. Covering several miles each day, the team also said the number of human remains is expected to increase as they continue down the Guadalupe River.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with all the families and first responders as they continue to navigate this challenging time,” the Virginia Beach Fire Department said…