The search continues for an 8-year-old Oklahoma girl swept away by flooding on Christmas Eve, along with her family, after their pickup truck became trapped in a drainage ditch near US 75 and Taylor Street in Sherman, Texas. The tragedy unfolded around 9:30 a.m. when the vehicle, driven by the girl’s father, Will Robinson, was overwhelmed by strong currents.
Will Robinson, a highly respected high school coach from Durant, Oklahoma, did not survive the incident. Four other members of the family were rescued, while the young woman remains missing. By Christmas Day, the search effort, supported by Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s approval of state search and rescue teams, expanded beyond Sherman to the lower regions of Post Oak and Choctaw creeks. , according to KXII News 12.
Search teams covered approximately seven miles of the creek at 2 p.m. without success and moved their efforts to new areas in the county, continuing until nightfall. Plans were made to resume the search early Thursday morning.
Sherman Police Department has urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this unimaginable time. “When we have an update on this case that we can share, we will let everyone know,” the department wrote on social media.
The department also asked the public to refrain from handing out snacks, drinks and other supplies, as these gestures, while appreciated, have hampered search efforts. Instead, they encourage anyone with “noteworthy” information about the girl’s whereabouts to contact their non-emergency line at 903-892-7290.
This tragic event has drawn sympathy from the community of Sherman, located just north of Fort Worth and Dallas. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly, helped by the state. resourcesas the family and community hold on to hope for the girl’s safe recovery.
Known for his dedication to his students and athletes, Robinson leaves a legacy of positive impact on his community. The family’s loss, compounded by the ongoing search for their missing daughter, has touched the hearts of many, highlighting the dangers posed by severe weather and flooding.
As the search continues, the family has requested privacy and support from the community, which awaits updates with a heavy heart.