Camp Mystic is under scrutiny in a criminal probe that may involve manslaughter or negligent homicide charges following the deaths of 27 girls during severe flooding in Texas last year. Court documents indicate that investigators, in their quest for search warrants last week, aimed to access the electronic communications of the camp’s proprietors. They believe these communications could serve as evidence of manslaughter, negligent homicide, child abandonment, or other offenses. While no charges have been laid, a spokesperson for the camp has not responded to requests for comment.
According to Brant Johnston of the Texas Rangers, Camp Mystic lacked sufficient emergency protocols, failed to carry out emergency drills or training, and had an insufficient number of adult counselors in some cabins. Despite being aware of late-night flood alerts, the camp neglected to move children from cabins in low-lying areas. Johnston emphasized that young campers cannot be expected to identify life-threatening situations independently or lead evacuations without proper adult supervision.
Johnston’s affidavit concluded that Camp Mystic was aware of and ignored a significant risk of death to the campers under their care. The devastating incident occurred on July 4, 2025, when 25 campers and two teenage counselors lost their lives as the Guadalupe River overflowed, claiming Camp Mystic owner Richard Eastland as well.
Camp Mystic, a long-standing institution for summer activities, was a cherished tradition for many families who entrusted their daughters to the camp for recreational and spiritual pursuits. However, the camp did not operate this year and has filed for bankruptcy reorganization due to the tragic events. The catastrophic flooding resulted in the loss of at least 136 lives along a stretch of the river, prompting inquiries into the circumstances leading to the disaster.
Legal representatives for some victims’ families expressed support for the search warrants but lamented that such measures should not have been necessary. They criticized the Eastland family for withholding information and answers from the grieving families. Despite investigations and testimonies in various legal settings, including apologies from camp leaders, many questions remain unanswered, and closure is yet to be found for the families of the victims.