Fort Bliss Soldier’s Children Killed in New Mexico Floods

Tragedy struck on Tuesday as two young children of a Fort Bliss soldier lost their lives in a flash flood near Ruidoso, New Mexico, as confirmed by a statement from the Texas Army base. A soldier on approved leave with their family was at a recreational vehicle campground when unexpected flooding hit the region.

Two young children, aged seven and four, were carried away by the swiftly rising waters of the Rio Ruidoso, which surged to a historic 20 feet due to severe monsoon rains. Both the soldier and their spouse have suffered broken bones and are currently hospitalized as of Thursday, though they are anticipated to make a full recovery.

“This tragic loss deeply saddens us,” stated Brig. Gen. Rory Crooks, deputy commanding general of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. “The Fort Bliss community expresses heartfelt sympathies to the family and loved ones impacted by this heartbreaking event. We are working in close collaboration with local authorities and are offering comprehensive assistance to the family during this sad time.

City officials have reported the tragic death of a middle-aged man due to the flash flood, with the possibility of additional fatalities as search and recovery efforts are ongoing. In a remarkable response to the unprecedented flooding, emergency crews conducted between 50 and 60 rescues in the affected region.

The region faced significant risks of flooding due to the aftermath of last year’s South Fork and Salt wildfires, which scorched nearly 25,000 acres and compromised the soil's ability to absorb rainfall effectively.

The city reports that over 200 homes sustained damage from the floods, and this figure may increase as evaluations proceed. Reports indicate that there was damage to the utility and infrastructure at Fort Bliss. The base has confirmed the downing of 19 utility poles, which resulted in several road closures and power outages, particularly affecting the Buffalo Soldier Gate.

The National Weather Service has issued a warning regarding ongoing flood risks in the area as recovery efforts move forward. Officials in emergency management are advising both residents and travelers to exercise caution and steer clear of areas susceptible to flooding.

Officials at Fort Bliss are withholding the names of the deceased to honor the family's privacy during this difficult time.