News Summary
The Brenham community is grieving the tragic loss of 10-year-old Devah Woods, who was swept away by floodwaters. She was walking home with her sister when the accident occurred. Despite rescue efforts, Devah’s body was discovered the following morning. Community members have united to support her family, organizing a fund and meal train. A memorial has been established at the bridge where the incident happened, reflecting the community’s love for Devah. Local schools are also providing counseling services to help students cope with the tragedy.
Brenham, Texas – The community of Brenham is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 10-year-old Devah Woods, whose life was tragically cut short after she was swept away by rising floodwaters on Monday afternoon. Devah, a student at Brenham Elementary School, was walking home with her sister when the incident occurred. Despite the efforts of neighbors and emergency responders to rescue her, she was found dead on Tuesday morning.
The accident took place around 4:30 p.m. near Fireman’s Park. As the girls attempted to cross a bridge, rapidly rising waters surrounded them, resulting in Devah being swept away. A dive team located her body around 10 a.m. on Tuesday behind the Washington County fairgrounds.
Devah’s mother, Veronica Williams, attended an emotional press conference organized to address the tragedy, although she did not speak during the event. City leaders, officials, and community members expressed their collective grief over the incident, acknowledging the deep impact on the local community.
In response to this devastating loss, a united effort has emerged among Brenham residents to support Devah’s family. Pastor Kevin Mitchell of Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church is leading the charge to provide assistance during this difficult time. He has met with Devah’s mother to help her through the tragedy and coordinate support efforts.
A fund account has been established at Brenham National Bank to receive donations for Devah’s family. Community members can contribute to this fund at various bank branches, with checks made payable to “The Devah Woods Benefit.” This initiative aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens the family is facing in the wake of their loss.
Additionally, a meal train has been organized to provide meals to Devah’s family. Community members are signing up online to deliver food, ensuring a supportive and coordinated effort to aid the family during this challenging period.
In remembrance of Devah, a memorial has formed at the bridge across Old Mill Creek, where residents are leaving flowers and balloons to honor her memory. This heartfelt display reflects the community’s love for Devah, resonating with the joy she brought to those around her.
Brenham Independent School District (Brenham ISD) is also taking steps to support students and staff affected by Devah’s death. The district has extended counseling and support services to help the community cope with the emotional fallout from this tragic event.
Neighbors and community members have come forward to share their memories of Devah, describing her as a joyful and active child. She participated in vacation bible school and enjoyed playing with friends. This tragic loss has left a mark on the community, known for its close-knit, family-oriented atmosphere. City officials emphasized the shared grief residents feel when one member of the community suffers.
As the community rallies around the Woods family, Brenham stands together in solidarity to heal and support one another during this trying time, keeping Devah’s spirit alive in their hearts.
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Additional Resources
- KBTX News
- Wikipedia: Brenham, Texas
- Fox 26 Houston
- Google Search: Devah Woods
- ABC13 News
- Google Scholar: Devah Woods flood
- KWTX Video
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Devah Woods
- People News
- Google News: Devah Woods
