A devastating incident unfolded on Christmas Eve as a family from Oklahoma found themselves in peril when their vehicle was swept away by floodwaters in Sherman, Texas, resulting in the loss of a beloved high school basketball coach and the disappearance of his daughter.

A search and rescue operation has been launched after Will Robinson, the coach, was found dead, and efforts continue to find his missing 8-year-old daughter, as Fox News reports.

The tragedy began early Tuesday morning when the family's SUV was caught in rising water. The six members of the Robinson family, traveling in their vehicle, found themselves trapped as the waters surged around them.

The vehicle reportedly veered off the road due to a heavy downpour combined with groundwater buildup, leading to its entrapment in a drainage ditch filled with floodwaters.

Multi-Jurisdictional Task Force Joins Effort

First responders managed to rescue four members of the family; however, an extensive search operation remains underway for the missing child.

Lieutenant Samuel Boyle of the Sherman Police Department has shared updates on the search, acknowledging the department's "unsuccessful" attempts so far to locate the young girl.

The search for her spans a 15-mile stretch of creek downstream from where their vehicle found against the waters' force.

Numerous agencies from both local and state levels, including specialized teams such as Texas Task Force 2, have joined the efforts.

The extensive coordination aims to cover extensive ground, employing various tools like canines and watercraft, in the hopes of bringing resolution to this heartbreaking incident.

Governor Provides Resources for Search Operation

By Wednesday, the search continued to expand, with efforts covering seven miles of the targeted creek section. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has approved additional state search and rescue teams to assist, highlighting the severity and urgency of the situation. The involvement of such teams underscores the importance that has been placed on finding the missing child.

The cause of the incident stems from a mixture of environmental conditions. Heavy rain combined with existing groundwater caused the family’s SUV to leave the roadway and navigate into a ditch, where it became immersed in flooding. Lieutenant Boyle explained the mechanism of the vehicle being ensnared, pointing out the unpredictability of such waters.

Community, Family Grieve

The incident has cast a shadow of sorrow particularly strong due to its occurrence on Christmas Eve, a sentiment echoed by Robinson's cousin on social media. In a heartfelt post, they highlighted Robinson’s character, remembering him as an outstanding person devoted to both his family and his role as a coach. Such personal losses amplify the community’s grief and dedication to the search.

The Sherman Police Department has expressed gratitude towards the community’s support and willingness to assist during this challenging time. In their statement, the police noted how such tragedies can reveal the community’s compassion and readiness to help in dire situations.

Public Statements and Warnings

Boyle has used this moment to advise the public on safety during similar storm conditions, urging caution when faced with the threat of rising waters. He explained how attempting to drive through water could leave vehicle occupants vulnerable to unpredictable dangers.

In such scenarios, he recommends reaching out for local assistance, avoiding attempts to cross flooded pathways. By raising awareness of the dangers of standing water, Boyle hopes to prevent future tragedies of this nature.

Search Operations Continue

With nightfall dictating pauses in their efforts, the search team remains committed, resuming before daylight to continue their extensive search mission. The persistence and dedication seen in this operation reflect the collective hope and resolve to find the little girl and provide answers to the grieving family.

This tragic series of events marks a somber holiday for the community, highlighting both the volatility of nature and the importance of heeding safety during severe weather conditions.

The memories of Will Robinson stand as a testament to his positive impact on those around him, and the ongoing search embodies the community’s resilience and hope for closure.