With heavy hearts and tearful eyes, we share the devastating news that Sebastian Trotter, age 7, and his younger sister, Charlotte Trotter, age 4, tragically lost their lives during the catastrophic flash flooding that struck Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
What was meant to be a peaceful family camping trip turned into an unimaginable nightmare as flash floods, fueled by days of relentless rain, swept through the region with unprecedented force. The Trotter family—originally stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas—had traveled to Ruidoso in search of summer memories. Instead, they faced the unthinkable.
As waters surged without warning, Sebastian and Charlotte were swept away, despite the desperate and heroic efforts of their parents to save them. Both parents sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to a hospital in El Paso, where they are currently recovering. Two of the family’s beloved dogs were also lost in the flood, compounding the heartbreak.
The news of Sebastian and Charlotte’s passing has sent shockwaves through their community and beyond. Their aunt, Tiffanie Wyatt, confirmed their identities, and in the wake of this overwhelming loss, she and other family members have asked for continued prayers and support.
Sebastian, a bright and imaginative child, loved collecting Pokémon cards and dreamed of one day becoming a professional soccer player. Charlotte was a joyful little girl who found happiness in singing, dancing, and giving people makeovers, always leaving a trail of laughter and sparkle wherever she went. Together, they were a force of innocence and love—siblings who adored each other and brought light to their family’s lives every single day.
“No words will ever capture the depth of our pain,” a family member shared. “Sebastian and Charlotte were our hearts. This pain is unbearable.”
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how swiftly and mercilessly nature can change lives. As New Mexico communities continue to recover and search teams work tirelessly in the aftermath, over 160 people remain missing, and the death toll has sadly continued to rise.
A memorial fund and additional support resources are expected to be announced for the Trotter family in the coming days. In the meantime, the public is asked to hold them in their thoughts and prayers, offering love from near and far during their darkest hour.
Rest peacefully, sweet Sebastian and Charlotte. Your time on this Earth was far too short, but your joy, laughter, and love will echo in the hearts of all who knew you.