A devastating incident unfolded on Christmas Eve when an Oklahoma basketball coach and father of four, along with his family, encountered perilous floodwaters in Sherman, Texas. Will Robinson, a high school basketball coach from Durant, Oklahoma, tragically lost his life when their SUV was swept away by raging currents. The vehicle veered off the road and into a drainage ditch, trapping all six family members inside. Four family members were rescued, but an 8-year-old girl remains missing. Authorities have intensified search efforts, covering miles of creek downstream. The community and officials are rallying to find the young girl, emphasizing the dangers of driving through flooded areas.
Unfolding Tragedy: The Incident Details
The harrowing event began early Tuesday morning when the Robinson family's SUV left the roadway and plunged into a drainage ditch due to heavy rainfall and accumulated groundwater. Strong currents swiftly carried the vehicle away, leading to a life-threatening situation for all occupants. Despite the best efforts of rescue teams, Will Robinson did not survive the ordeal. The tragedy has deeply affected the community, especially during the holiday season.
Lieutenant Samuel Boyle of the Sherman Police Department explained that the combination of heavy downpour and water accumulation caused the vehicle to lose control and enter the drainage ditch. The swift currents made it nearly impossible to regain control. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the extreme dangers posed by floodwaters. "It’s a tragedy, it really is," Boyle remarked, underscoring the devastating impact on the Robinson family and the broader community. The cousin of the deceased described Will Robinson as a devoted husband, father, and beloved coach, urging everyone to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.
Ongoing Search and Community Response
Efforts to locate the missing 8-year-old girl continue unabated. Authorities have identified a 15-mile stretch of creek downstream from where the vehicle stopped, deploying a multi-jurisdictional task force to cover this area meticulously. Texas Governor Greg Abbott approved state search and rescue teams to assist, ensuring comprehensive coverage. As of Wednesday, seven miles of creek had already been searched, with plans to extend the search into previously unexplored locations.
The search involves various local and state agencies, including Texas Task Force 2, using canines and specialized watercraft teams. Lieutenant Boyle emphasized the importance of public cooperation and advised against attempting to drive through standing water. "Once you lose control of your vehicle, you're at the mercy of the water," he warned. The community has rallied around the Robinson family, with numerous first responders involved in the search. The police department urged anyone with relevant information to contact them, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and support in finding the young girl.