Beckham County, OK — Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning shared an emotional message in response to the devastating floods in Texas, calling attention to the pain felt by families, first responders, and entire communities caught in the disaster.
"My heart goes out to those families," Manning said. "My daughters and wife were watching the news this weekend, keeping me updated on the numbers... those poor little girls that were missing. I can't imagine how gut-wrenching that would be — not having answers or getting the word that your child was gone."
Manning, clearly moved by the tragedy, spoke not only as a law enforcement officer but as a father. His message emphasized the emotional toll on everyone involved — especially those searching for victims and comforting devastated families.
"There are cops down there doing the anguishing job of keeping folks safe, even when every parent just wants to run in and look for their child. Somebody has to deliver that terrible news. Somebody has to say, ‘I’m sorry, ma’am. I’m sorry, sir.’ That’s just... it’s brutal," he said.
Manning also acknowledged the work of public officials and emergency crews on the ground, highlighting how specialized and limited high-water rescue resources can be, especially in areas like Texas' Hill Country.
“It’s not an exact science. There are people who specialize in this kind of water recovery, but sometimes when it’s already happening, there just aren’t a lot of things you can do. You're looking for people who may already be gone,” he said.
Describing the terrain as unforgiving, Manning explained how the hard, rocky ground in that part of Texas causes flash flooding to develop quickly and dangerously.
"You can go from a trickle to a raging current several feet deep in minutes. Every low spot between the hills becomes its own river. It's just a nightmare scenario."
While Beckham County occasionally experiences flooding, Manning noted that local risks tend to be lower due to fewer homes and public areas being in flood zones. Still, he expressed deep empathy and offered his prayers for those affected.
"I’ve been thinking about them all weekend... sending up prayers for their well-being, mental and physical, and for the heartbreaking loss they’re enduring. It’s just unimaginable.”
As recovery efforts continue in Texas, Manning's words echo the sentiments of many Oklahomans watching the tragedy unfold — a heartfelt blend of sorrow, support, and solidarity.
