Dad dies cutting arm almost 'clean off' during desperate bid to save family in Texas flood

A dad died after cutting his arm nearly 'clean off' helping save his family from the horrific flooding in Texas, says his fiancee, whose last message from him read, 'I’m sorry I’m not going to make it'.

As the search continues for more than 160 people believed to be missing days after a destructive wall of water killed over 100 people, the horror stories continue to emerge as well as courage shown.

Relatives of Julian Ryan confirmed the dad had given his life to save his family during flooding along the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, northwest of San Antonio, on July 4.

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The 27-year-old was with his partner Christinia Wilson and the rest of their family at their home in Ingram when the water began rising quickly.

"It just started pouring in and we had to fight the door to get it closed to make sure not too much got in," said Christinia.

With the water rising to their knees they moved to a room at the back of the house with their kids and his mum but then when they realised the emergency services wouldn’t be able to come in time, Julian punched through a window for them to get out.

"It severed his artery in his arm, and almost cut it clean off", Christina added.

Christina, her mother-in-law, and the children managed to make it out as Julian sent his final message. He told her: "I'm sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all."

It took several hours before rescuers were able to reach his body as they were waiting for the water to recede, she said.

Pamela Baker, Christina's mum, said Julian made the "ultimate sacrifice to save what was most important to him" and that he was "their hero" and hers after saving her daughter's life.

Pamela told People: "He was a great guy in so many ways. He brought out the best version of my daughter. He loved her and their babies with all of him. He was an upbeat, optimistic person. He was always there when we needed him."

Joseph Rounsley also hailed his brother as a "true hero", explaining how he "gave his life for his family".

"While his family is eternally grateful for his sacrifice, they are shattered by their loss. Julian was a beloved son, father, fiancé, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to so many, and his sudden departure has left an unfillable void in all our lives.

"No one is ever prepared for such a loss, especially one that comes so suddenly," he said.