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Texas fire chief among the missing in devastating flooding

Authorities confirmed that Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Chief Michael Phillips was last seen attempting a rescue in Burnet County

BURNETT COUNTY, Texas — The Burnet County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a press conference on July 5 that three people have died and search efforts continue for five others, amid the devastating flooding.

Burnet County Sheriff Calvin Boyd said Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Chief Michael Phillips is among the missing, last seen attempting a rescue near FM 1174 at Cow Creek, KXAN reported.

Officials believe four of the missing are in the Marble Falls area, with one near Hamilton Creek in Burnet.

BCSO Chief Deputy Alan Trevino said emergency responders have used drones, helicopters, boats and dogs in search efforts. Officials reported that 63 rescues have been made so far.

Flood operations were in full swing Saturday in Burnet County, where first responders were handling 19 active water rescues as floodwaters swept through Central Texas, according to the Burnet County Office of Emergency Management.

The agency later confirmed that a firefighter had been swept away during a rescue, and as of 11:36 a.m., crews were working to locate them.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.