All Ozona Flood Victims Safely Evacuated by Swiftwater Teams

OZONA, TX — All residents directly impacted by rapid flooding in Ozona have been safely evacuated, with 51 people transported to a shelter at the Civic Center by 11:20 a.m. Friday after swiftwater rescue teams, including an airboat from Texas Parks and Wildlife, pulled people from homes and a flooded RV park. 

Crockett County Emergency Management Coordinator Eddie Martin said the operation began after heavy rain prevented firefighters from reaching a tank battery fire 20 miles northwest of Ozona at 6:33 a.m. By 7:15 a.m., in-town draws were already flooded and water was entering a residence on Bold Ruler in southwest Ozona. Evacuations started at 7:44 a.m. using fire trucks, expanding to Quail Run housing, the Southern Living RV park and the first floor of Crockett Apartments. 

The first swiftwater boat team arrived at 9:05 a.m., followed by additional teams and the airboat, which Martin praised for reaching difficult areas. The first evacuees reached the shelter at 10:45 a.m., and all rescues were complete by 11:20 a.m. Local EMS members are staffing the shelter, where some evacuees remain while others have reunited with family. 

Ozona and central Crockett County have received 6.3 inches of rain since midnight, on top of nearly 10 inches beforehand. Martin said floodwaters should recede rapidly once the rain stops. 

Crockett County Judge Frank Tambunga urged residents to stay home unless absolutely necessary so first responders can focus on those in need. Sheriff Victor De La Garza said all impacted residents are safe at the reunification center and thanked partner agencies for their response. 

Swiftwater teams will remain available through the night. Anyone in an emergency should call 911; others are asked to stay off flooded roads. The county is not accepting food or durable goods donations at this time, but will offer damage assessment services next week for affected residents.