Camp Mystic Faces Criminal Probe Over 2025 Flood Deaths

Texas Rangers are conducting a criminal investigation into Camp Mystic, seeking evidence of manslaughter, negligent homicide, and child abandonment in connection with the deaths of 27 girls during devastating floods in 2025. Court documents indicate investigators are examining electronic communications of the camp's owners as part of the probe.

Investigators allege that Camp Mystic lacked adequate emergency plans, failed to conduct necessary drills or training, and had insufficient adult supervision in some cabins. An affidavit filed for search warrants states that camp owners neglected to take precautions, such as relocating children from low-lying cabins, despite monitoring late-night flood warnings. According to the affidavit, "Camp Mystic, LLC was aware of and consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk of death to the campers in their care."

No charges have been filed at this time. A representative for the camp did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The floodwaters of the Guadalupe River surged beyond its banks before dawn on July 4, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 25 campers and two teenage counselors at the Christian all-girls camp. The destructive flooding claimed at least 136 lives along a several-mile stretch of the river.

Camp Mystic did not reopen for the 2026 season and has filed for bankruptcy reorganization. Camp owner Richard Eastland also perished in the flood.

Attorneys representing some of the victims' families have welcomed the search warrants, but expressed frustration over the time taken to pursue accountability. "For more than a year, families of the 27 angels killed at Camp Mystic have fought, begged, and pleaded with the Eastland family for accountability and answers," stated Christina Yarnell and Brad Beckworth, attorneys for the family of victim Cile Steward. They added that the Eastland family has allegedly withheld information and answers from the parents.

Investigators have visited Camp Mystic multiple times and interviewed witnesses and flood victims. However, according to the warrant affidavit, several individuals, including members of the Eastland family and other camp officials, declined to be interviewed. The Eastland family and other camp leaders have previously testified before legislative bodies and in court, with camp director Edward Eastland offering an apology.

Camp Mystic had been a long-standing summer institution for generations of families. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols and emergency response during severe weather events.