Camp Mystic apologizes to parents of flood victims
The Texas Tribune • • nation
Key Points:
- Edward Eastland, representing Camp Mystic, apologized at a state hearing for the deaths of 25 campers and two counselors during a July 4 flood, expressing deep regret for the tragedy and lack of earlier communication with families.
- Grieving parents recounted painful memories and criticized the Eastland family for failing to protect their children, with some calling for the camp to be shut down or operated by new management.
- Investigations revealed Camp Mystic lacked flood evacuation plans and training, leading to a chaotic and insufficient response during the disaster; lawmakers debated suspending or denying the camp’s operating license.
- The Eastlands admitted to being unprepared for the flood and not evacuating campers early enough, while some parents described ongoing trauma for survivors who witnessed the tragedy firsthand.
- Despite controversy, the Eastland family expressed a desire to reopen the camp under state license, prompting emotional responses from families and calls for the Eastlands to prioritize healing and accountability over resuming operations.
