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Search Expands for Missing 8-Year-Old Girl After Holiday Tragedy in Texas
Authorities in Texas are intensifying efforts to locate an 8-year-old girl, Clara Robinson, who has been missing since a tragic accident on Christmas Eve. The expansion of the search comes after investigators have identified additional “targeted areas of interest” in the vicinity.
On the morning of December 24, an SUV carrying six individuals from Durant, Oklahoma, was engulfed by floodwaters on Highway 75. The vehicle subsequently crashed into a drainage ditch around 9:30 a.m.
After four days since the incident, Sherman Chief of Police, Jason Jeffcoat, confirmed that Clara Robinson is still unaccounted for.
High School Basketball Coach Dead, 8-Year-Old Daughter Missing After Christmas Eve Tragedy
As part of the ongoing search operations, teams are actively investigating Post Oak Creek, which lies close to where the initial rescue undertakings were conducted. “Search teams are continuing efforts to scour Post Oak Creek and a 10-mile stretch of both Post Oak Creek and Choctaw Creek,” Jeffcoat stated.
On December 29, law enforcement agencies employed various resources including K9 units, dive teams, drones, and helicopters in their search for Clara. Teams from multiple organizations including the Sherman Fire Department, Sherman Police Department, Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, and other emergency management entities are collaborating in the effort.
Texas Task Force Two has divided its search personnel to cover both the creeks and other unspecified targeted locations in their continued efforts.
Officials from Sherman expressed their commitment to locating Clara until she is found, emphasizing the importance of community support during this distressing time.
The tragedy took a compounded toll, as Clara’s father, Will Robinson, a respected high school basketball coach, lost his life in the accident while heroically attempting to rescue another child. He was trying to help a 5-year-old girl who was not breathing when first responders arrived. Remarkably, the girl later reunited with her family, which was deemed a comforting aspect amid the unfortunate events.
“The father had the little girl in his arms during the incident, and they later were separated, indicating that he was indeed trying to save her,” recounted Bart Bowman from Sherman Fire Rescue.
Will Robinson’s efforts were credited with saving the child’s life. A firefighter was able to retrieve the girl from underwater, after which she received life-saving CPR on the way to the hospital. Thanks to prompt medical assistance, she made a swift recovery, being discharged the following day without significant issues.
Robinson was remembered fondly by the community as a dedicated coach who invested time and care into his players. Former players remarked on his patience and positive approach, describing him as a mentor who maintained an encouraging atmosphere during practices.
“He never raised his voice out of anger,” expressed player Emeri Morse, recalling how supportive Will was both to the team and his daughter Clara, who was often seen accompanying him during practices. “They were inseparable, and she would always run to him or ask him for snacks.”
As search efforts continue, the community remains hopeful for Clara’s safe return, while also mourning the loss of Will Robinson.
Fox Texas Digital, and Fox 4’s Dan Godwin and David Sentendrey contributed to this story.
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