Final words of Texas father who died saving family from flood revealed: 'I’m not going to make it'
INGRAM, TEXAS: The heartbreaking final words of a young father who sacrificed his life to save his family during the devastating Texas floods have been revealed.
Julian Ryan, 27, was at home with his fiancee, Christinia Wilson, their two young children, ages 6 and 13 months, and his mother when the waters of the Guadalupe River began rising rapidly early Friday morning, July 4.
As the floodwaters surged through their trailer in Ingram, Ryan made a desperate and heroic attempt to get his loved ones to safety, a moment that would become both tragic and unforgettable.
Julian Ryan, ‘the kindest person,’ lost his life while trying to escape the Texas flood
Christinia Wilson shared the harrowing details of the tragedy with CBS affiliate KHOU, recalling how quickly the floodwaters invaded their home.
Within just 30 minutes, she said, water began pouring in with terrifying force. "It just started pouring in, and we had to fight the door to get it closed to make sure not too much got in," Wilson recounted. "We went back to the room and started calling 911."
As the situation grew more dire, Julian Ryan realized they had little time. In a desperate bid to save his family, he shattered a window with his bare hands to create an escape route, as per Wilson's statement. But the life-saving act came at a devastating cost, he severed an artery in his arm and nearly lost it entirely. “It severed his artery in his arm and almost cut it clean off,” Wilson said.
Despite repeated 911 calls, help didn’t arrive in time. As the water rose and his injuries worsened, Ryan knew he wouldn’t survive. With his family gathered around him, he spoke his final words.
"I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,” the brave father told his family as he bled out in the flooding bedroom. The force of the rising waters ripped the trailer in half and the family was able to flee to safety without the brave man.
Wilson remembered her fiance with deep love and sorrow, “He was a good man. He was strong and loving and always happy. He tried to save us, and we will forever be grateful and miss him. He’s still with us, and I see him every day in our son."
Wilson also shared that her husband's body was not discovered until several hours after his death when the waters subsided.
Julian’s bravery left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His sister, Connie Salas, called him “the hero in this story,” while his best friend, Kris Roberts, added, “He's the kindest person I've ever met in my life, and I'll forever love him no matter what."
Julian Ryan’s friends create GoFundMe page in his memory
After the heartbreaking tragedy, Julian Ryan’s friends created a GoFundMe campaign to honor his memory and support his grieving family.
They described Julian, who died on July 4, 2025, as a "true hero," and said his sudden death left an “unfillable void” in the lives of everyone who loved him.
In the fundraiser description, the family expressed their deep sorrow and urgent need for help, “This unimaginable tragic loss has left his mother, fiance, brothers, and sister facing not only immense emotional pain but also significant unforeseen financial burden. We are hoping to help alleviate the unforeseen financial burdens that come with such a sudden tragedy.”
They continued, “No one is ever prepared for such a loss, especially one that comes so suddenly. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference and will be profoundly appreciated as the family navigates this heartbreaking time. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with your networks. Your prayers, thoughts, and support mean the world to us.”
At the time of writing, supporters have contributed $88,115 toward the $130K goal. Over 1,500 donors have helped the campaign reach 68% of its target.
