‘I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It’: Sheriff Chuck Havard Returns from Hill Country with Powerful Reflections and Heartfelt Thanks

Sheriff Chuck Havard is no stranger to disaster zones — but what he witnessed in the Texas Hill Country over the past few days left a lasting impact.

“Our crew got back home this evening... and I’ve never seen anything quite like it,” Havard shared after returning from the flood-ravaged region. “That river was powerful. It was devastating.”

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Jefferson County District Attorney Keith Giblin to send a law enforcement team into Kerr County to assist with response and recovery efforts. The mission was led by Brit Featherstone, a former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas and longtime law enforcement officer, whom Havard praised as “as good as they come.”

Havard was joined by Brandon Crowder and a crew of six law enforcement officers who worked closely with disaster recovery teams on the ground. While the devastation was staggering, it was the heart of those helping that stood out most.

The sheriff offered heartfelt gratitude to Tim Miller, founder of TexasEquuSearch, and Jeff Conrad, Director of Field Operations for Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR) — two volunteer-based organizations that have been instrumental not only in Kerr County, but also in past searches and rescues throughout Jasper County.

“Tim and I have been friends for a long time, and he always comes through for us — no matter where we are,” said Havard. “Jeff Conrad and the TEXSAR team are another group we can always count on. These organizations are made up of citizens from all over the country who just want to help. It’s inspiring.”

Havard also extended a special thank you to Daniel Wheeler of Black Eagle Ranch, who generously hosted the team during their deployment.

“There are thousands of volunteers in the Hill Country right now,” Havard said. “People from all walks of life, working tirelessly to help complete strangers. It’s humbling and emotional to witness.”

As the team returns home, the sheriff shared a final thought for the communities still grappling with loss:

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families, the victims, and all those affected by this tragedy. We’re with you.”

Photos shared by the sheriff's office capture the raw destruction left in the flood’s wake — but also the undeniable power of compassion, service, and community coming together.