In this image taken from video, flash flooding is seen behind a house in Ruidoso, N.M., Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (Kaitlyn Carpenter via AP)

Two children of a Fort Bliss soldier died in flash flooding Tuesday night in New Mexico, and the soldier and his wife remain hospitalized with serious injuries, the Army base said.

The family, who base officials declined to name, was visiting Ruidoso when monsoon rains caused catastrophic flooding in a region left bare from wildfires one year ago. The children were 4 and 7 years old, the base said.

“Our hearts are heavy with grief following this devastating loss,” said Brig. Gen. Rory Crooks, deputy commander of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. “The entire Fort Bliss community extends our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragedy.”

One other adult man died in the flooding as well, according to Ruidoso officials. The Rio Ruidoso rose to 20 feet — 5 feet higher than the previous record. Videos of flooding showed homes being carried away in rushing water.

Ruidoso is about 130 miles north of Fort Bliss, which also felt the effects of Tuesday’s storm. Nearly 20 utility poles along Bradley Road fell onto the street at the west Texas base and must be replaced, the base said. Bradley Road and Buffalo Gate will remain closed until the work is complete.

Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, represents Fort Bliss and described the loss of the children as tragic, particularly as it came on the heels or more than 100 flood-related deaths in central Texas, which included dozens of children attending summer camp.

“My heart is with them, their loved ones and the entire Fort Bliss family as they go through this incredibly difficult time,” she said.