A devastating tragedy has struck the Swift family as Austin Swift, the younger brother of global superstar Taylor Swift, has been confirmed dead after being swept away in the catastrophic floodwaters currently ravaging the Texas Hill Country.

The heartbreaking news was jointly confirmed late Tuesday evening by Taylor Swift and her longtime partner, NFL star Travis Kelce.

According to local authorities and family representatives, Austin Swift had been vacationing with close friends in the scenic region of central Texas when flash floods unexpectedly tore through the area following days of torrential rain.

Emergency responders launched an extensive search effort after Swift was reported missing early Monday morning. Tragically, his body was recovered downstream late Tuesday afternoon.

The Swift family, known for their tight-knit bond, is said to be devastated by the loss.

In a somber statement released via publicist Tree Paine, Taylor and Travis shared their grief with fans:

“Our beloved Austin was a light in our lives — creative, kind, and full of laughter. His sudden passing in the Texas floodwaters has left us shattered. We ask for privacy as we mourn this unimaginable loss and ask fans around the world to keep our family in their thoughts and prayers.”

Austin, 33, was more than just the younger brother of one of the biggest music icons in the world. A talented actor, producer, and photographer, he had carved out a quiet but impactful career in Hollywood, earning praise for his performances in indie films and his work behind the scenes on several of Taylor’s projects — including music videos and tour visuals.

Fans around the globe have begun flooding social media with messages of condolences, memories, and support, causing “#RIPAustinSwift” to trend within minutes of the announcement.

Eyewitness reports from the scene revealed that Austin had been exploring a popular hiking trail near the Blanco River when rapidly rising waters overwhelmed the area. Several others in the vicinity were rescued, but Austin was tragically separated from the group.

Texas authorities have confirmed that the region is currently under a state of emergency, with multiple fatalities and dozens of people still missing due to the widespread flooding. Meteorologists have called it one of the worst flood events the state has seen in the last decade.

In the wake of this tragedy, it remains unclear whether Taylor will proceed with her remaining tour dates for the Eras Tour: Worldwide Encore scheduled later this month.

Sources close to the family indicate she is “inconsolable” and has already flown privately with Travis Kelce to join her parents in Nashville, where funeral arrangements are expected to take place.

Messages of support have poured in from fellow celebrities and public figures. Selena Gomez posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram: “Austin was one of the kindest souls I’ve ever known. My heart is with you, Taylor.” NFL teammates of Kelce also extended their sympathies.As fans gather at impromptu vigils outside Taylor’s childhood home in Pennsylvania and record stores across the country, the collective heartbreak over the loss of Austin Swift serves as a painful reminder of the unpredictability of life — and the power of community in moments of deep sorrow.

The Swift family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Red Cross or local flood relief organizations aiding those affected in Texas.