Julian Ryan, a resident of Ingram, Texas, died tragically on July 4 while trying to save his family from the deadly floodwaters that swept through their home. His wife, Christina Wilson, shared with PEOPLE the heartbreaking final moments they experienced together as their home was overwhelmed by rising water.
Ryan, Wilson, and their children were inside when floodwaters surged into their house. In a desperate attempt to escape, Ryan shattered a window with his bare hands, severely injuring himself. Despite multiple calls to 911, no rescue teams were able to reach them in time.
Realizing the severity of the situation, Ryan gave his final goodbye:
“I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,” he told his wife and children. His body was found hours later.
“He was a good man—strong, loving, and always happy. He tried to save us, and we will forever be grateful. I still see him every day in our son,” Wilson said.
A GoFundMe page set up for the grieving family describes Ryan as “a cherished son, devoted father and husband” who was known for his “infectious laugh and unwavering kindness.”
Wilson also expressed frustration over the lack of warning and emergency preparedness. She believes that a simple flood siren might have saved lives.
“Everybody would’ve asked, ‘What’s that noise?’ And we would’ve left. We had so many safe places to go,” she said.
The Texas floods have so far claimed at least 82 lives, with dozens still missing as search and rescue efforts continue across the state.
