Matthew Angel Tufongo had just celebrated his 51st birthday with loved ones. Hours later on his way to work, he became trapped in the chaos of rushing floodwaters.
SAN ANTONIO — The early morning hours of Thursday brought about historic rainfall and severe thunderstorms to the Alamo City, leading to destructive flooding and the deaths of 13 people. Among the lives lost was 51-year-old Matthew Angel Tufono, described by family as a God-fearing man who radiated positivity.
The whole family came together on Wednesday to celebrate Matthew’s birthday. His son Tyson recalled their final moments while driving home.
“We all went out to dinner to just fellowship and enjoy each other’s company,” Tyson said. “Oddly enough, I asked him on the way home, ‘Would you want to live another 51 years?’ He told me, ‘God willing, I’ll live until I can’t take care of myself anymore.’”
Less than 24 hours later, Matthew was on his way to work when floodwaters took over the roads. Matthew along with 11 others in the Perrin Beitel area did not survive the chaos.
“He always told us to be careful on the roads during storms,” said one of his daughters, Marie Tufono. “He wasn’t the type to take risks like that.”
Matthew’s daughter, Shannon Tufono, remembers her father as a warm soul who conquered cancer, leading life with an overwhelming sense of positivity and strength.
“Even during his fight with cancer, he was so optimistic,” Shannon said. “He wanted us to see the beauty in life and stay hopeful, no matter what. Life’s too short, he always said.”
That same outlook now guides the family as they navigate the heartbreak of his sudden death.
On Saturday, Matthew’s family created a makeshift memorial, placing flowers along the creek at the Briar Glen Trailhead.
“We’re not having a funeral,” Shannon shared. “We’re having a celebration of his life. He’s just the coolest guy.”
By Saturday morning, the San Antonio Fire Department noted everyone who was reported missing had been recovered.
Eleven of the victims were recovered in the Perrin Beitel search area near Austin Highway, one was discovered several miles upstream and another victim was found in the Highway 90 Leon Creek area.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those lost during this tragic event. Thank you to our media partners for your patience, and due diligence in getting vital information out to our community and the nation. Special thank you to the people of San Antonio for your unwavering support, the volunteers that came out to assist us, and to Texas A&M Task Force One for your dedication and assistance.”
Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach and San Antonio Aware are planning a vigil in honor of the flood victims for Wednesday June 18 at 8 p.m. A location is still in the works.
Victims ages ranged from 28-67.
As of 4:45 p.m. Saturday, 10 of the 13 victims have been identified by the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office.