EXCLUSIVE (KXAN) – The McCown family of Austin, Texas has been through unimaginable tragedy. Just two months ago, their eight-year-old daughter Linnie was killed at Camp Mystic during a deadly flood. But despite their heartbreak, the McCowns are determined to honor their daughter’s memory and spread her message of love and joy.

In an exclusive interview with KXAN Investigates, Linnie’s mother, Callie McCown, shared the story of their beloved daughter. “Linnie was so special,” Callie said, her voice filled with love and pride. “She was the middle child of two boys, but she shone like a bright star in our family. She loved to dance and brought so much joy to everyone around her.”

Linnie’s love for dance was evident from a young age. She would often put on impromptu performances for her family, twirling and leaping with grace and passion. Her parents knew that she had a special talent and encouraged her to pursue her passion. Linnie’s dance teacher, Mrs. Jenkins, described her as a natural performer with a contagious energy that lit up the room.

But Linnie’s life was cut tragically short during a camping trip at Camp Mystic. A sudden and severe storm caused a flash flood, sweeping away Linnie and several other campers. Despite the best efforts of the camp staff and emergency responders, Linnie did not survive.

The McCowns were devastated by the loss of their daughter, but they are determined to keep her memory alive. “Linnie was such a bright light in our lives,” Callie said. “We don’t want her to be remembered as a victim of a tragic accident. We want her to be remembered for the amazing person she was.”

In the midst of their grief, the McCowns have found solace in the outpouring of love and support from their community. Linnie’s school, dance studio, and church have all come together to honor her memory. A memorial fund has been set up in her name, with all proceeds going towards providing dance scholarships for underprivileged children.

“Linnie had a heart of gold and always wanted to help others,” Callie shared. “We know that she would be so happy to know that her love for dance is helping other children discover their own passion.”

The McCowns also want to raise awareness about the dangers of flash floods and the importance of being prepared. “We never could have imagined that something like this could happen to our family,” Callie said. “But we want to use our experience to educate others and prevent another family from going through what we have.”

Despite their unimaginable loss, the McCowns are determined to stay positive and honor Linnie’s memory through acts of kindness and spreading love. “Linnie was a ray of sunshine in our lives,” Callie said. “And we want to keep her light shining for others.”

The McCowns hope that Linnie’s legacy will inspire others to live life to the fullest and spread love and joy wherever they go. “Linnie’s time with us may have been short, but she left a lasting impact on everyone she met,” Callie said. “We will always carry her in our hearts and continue to honor her by living life with the same joy and passion that she did.”

In the face of tragedy, the McCown family has shown incredible strength and resilience. Their message of love and positivity is a reminder to us all to cherish our loved ones and make the most of every moment. Linnie’s spirit will live on through the lives she touched and the memories she left behind.