A record-breaking flash flood devastated the village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday, claiming the lives of three people—two young siblings and a man in his fifties. According to officials, the victims were “swept downstream by the unprecedented floodwaters.”

Mayor Lynn Crawford described the loss of life as “the biggest catastrophe of all.” The children, identified as Sebastian Trotter, 7, and Charlotte Trotter, 4, died after their home was completely washed away. Their father, a U.S. soldier stationed at Fort Bliss, and their mother were both injured and are recovering in a Texas hospital.

Their aunt, Tiffanie Wyatt, shared memories of the children, saying Sebastian was a passionate soccer fan and Pokémon card collector, while Charlotte loved performing, joking, and giving playful makeovers with her toy makeup.

The identity of the third victim, a man in his fifties, has not yet been released.

The flood struck with shocking speed, as Rio Ruidoso rose from under three feet to over 20 feet in less than an hour, according to the National Weather Service. This region has been particularly vulnerable following the 2024 wildfires that destroyed 1,400 structures.

Danielle Silva of New Mexico’s Department of Homeland Security reported that emergency crews performed at least 85 swift water rescues, helping stranded residents escape from flooded homes and vehicles.

This disaster follows massive floods in Texas that killed over 107 people, with more than 160 still missing. The Village of Ruidoso has expressed its grief and unity during this difficult time.