TCU, SMU honor 9-year-old victim of Central Texas floods before rivalry game
TCU and SMU share one of college football’s longest rivalries, but they came together Saturday to support a family with ties to both schools that endured a tragedy.
Lila Bonner, 9, was one of 135 people who died in the July floods that hit Camp Mystic and devastated Central Texas. Her father, Blake, is a TCU alum, and her mother, Caitlin, is an SMU alum.
TCU and SMU issued a joint statement memorializing Bonner and informing fans how they can support victims of the floods.
“At just nine years old, Lila tragically lost her life in the July 2025 Flash Floods at Camp Mystic,” the statement reads. “Yet her vibrant spirit and boundless love for animals live on through Lila’s light. Lila was the heart of a 'house divided' — proudly donning TCU purple and SMU red and blue, a true reflection of her families’ split loyalties.”
Lila’s Light is a charity dedicated to helping animals affected by natural disasters, honoring her admiration and affection for all creatures.
Those interested in donating can go to the lilaslight.org, and the website also offers different ways to support victims.
Bonner’s family, including her sister, was welcomed on the field before the start of TCU and SMU’s game on Saturday at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
This story was originally published September 20, 2025 at 1:06 PM.
