In the dead of night, as raging floodwaters swallowed the quiet town of Ingram, Texas, 27-year-old Julian Ryan made the ultimate sacrifice. In his final moments, this devoted father and fiancé faced an unthinkable choice — and chose love over life.
“Take the kids — go!” Julian yelled as the dark waters surged into their home, rising fast, leaving no room for hesitation. He pushed his fiancée, Christinia Wilson, and their children toward safety. His mission: get them out alive, no matter the cost.
A Storm No One Could Outrun
Heavy rains overnight sent the Guadalupe River surging over 30 feet above normal, turning calm neighborhoods into deadly rivers. Families along the banks had minutes — or seconds — to act.
“The water came so fast. It was at our knees in 20 minutes,” Christinia said. “It just poured in. We tried to hold the door closed — but it kept coming. We had no choice but to escape.”
A Father’s Last Act of Courage
Julian smashed through a window, carving a path to the roof for his loved ones. But the glass sliced deep, severing an artery and nearly taking his arm. Bleeding out, he stayed focused on what mattered most: his family’s survival.
For hours, Julian fought. But as the sun rose over a shattered town, his strength faded.
Holding back tears, Christinia recalled his final words — words no one who heard them will ever forget.
“I’m sorry… I’m not going to make it. I love y’all.”
Julian passed before help could arrive. His body was found when the waters receded, leaving behind grief — and pride.\
“He died a hero,” said his sister, Connie Salas. “His bravery will never be forgotten.”
A Town in Mourning, a Family Forever Changed
Loved ones describe Julian as kind, funny, and fiercely loyal. His loss has left what they call “an unfillable void.”
“He was the kindest person I’ve ever known,” said close friend Kris Roberts. “I’ll love him forever.”\
A Call for Change
As they mourn, Julian’s family is demanding action.
“If there had been flood sirens, we would’ve left,” Christinia said. “We had places to go. We just didn’t have time.”
A GoFundMe has been set up to help cover funeral costs and help the family rebuild.
A Wider Tragedy Unfolds
Julian’s story is just one among many. As of Saturday, the flood’s death toll had reached 50. Twenty-seven children from Camp Mystic, a summer camp along the river, remain missing.
Inside the wreckage, beds are coated in sludge, personal belongings scattered like confetti of heartbreak.
Rescue crews work day and night, hoping for miracles along the Guadalupe’s path of destruction.
“We’re in a marathon,” said Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice. “And we have to look after each other.”
Julian Ryan did just that. And in doing so, he became a hero Texas — and the nation — will never forget.
