Full Breakdown
Camp Mystic Flood: Testimony Reveals Missed Evacuation Opportunities
4/16/2026, 3:14:27 AM
Overview of the Incident
The tragic flood at Camp Mystic on July 4, 2022, resulted in the deaths of 25 campers and two teenage counselors, alongside camp co-owner Dick Eastland. The incident occurred in the predawn hours when floodwaters surged through the Guadalupe River, leading to a chaotic and deadly situation for those present at the all-girls Christian camp. A recent hearing has brought to light critical testimonies regarding the camp's emergency response and evacuation protocols.
Key Testimony from Security Guard
Glenn Juenke, a security guard at Camp Mystic during the flood, testified that an earlier evacuation order could have potentially saved lives. He recounted his actions on the night of the flood, including moving some campers to a two-story building and later instructing a group of girls to seek higher ground as waters rose. Juenke emphasized that his decisions were made independently, without directives from camp directors or authorities, and noted a lack of training for campers and staff regarding emergency evacuations.
Criticism of Evacuation Protocols
The hearing has highlighted significant criticisms regarding the camp's emergency preparedness. Lawyers representing the families of the victims have pointed out the absence of a detailed evacuation plan and the failure to issue timely evacuation orders. A short emergency notice, which had passed state inspection just two days prior, instructed campers to remain in their cabins until further notice from staff. This directive has been scrutinized, particularly in light of the tragic outcomes.
Official Statements & Responses
Juenke defended the actions taken by himself and the camp staff, stating, “We did everything we could do in the time that we had.” However, attorney Brad Beckworth, representing the family of 8-year-old Cile Steward, who remains missing, criticized the lack of communication during the emergency. Beckworth asserted, “You can blame it on Mother Nature or God Almighty, but if anyone had used the speakers or walkie talkie and told them to leave before 3 (am), they would’ve survived.”
Impact and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The camp's plans to reopen this summer have sparked outrage among the families of the victims, and the camp's license is currently under review by state health regulators. A judge recently ordered the preservation of damaged areas as evidence for pending lawsuits, a ruling that is now under appeal. The hearing has provided extensive details about the events leading up to the flood, including missed opportunities for better preparedness and delayed evacuation decisions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Juenke's testimony suggests that individual actions were taken to save lives, the families of the victims argue that systemic failures in communication and planning contributed significantly to the tragedy. The ongoing legal battles and investigations will likely continue to reveal more about the circumstances surrounding the flood and the camp's emergency response protocols.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a long night. We were getting bitten by fire ants. The girls did everything I told them to do,” — Glenn Juenke, Security Guard
- “You can blame it on Mother Nature or God Almighty, but if anyone had used the speakers or walkie talkie and told them to leave before 3 (am), they would’ve survived,” — Brad Beckworth, Attorney for Victim's Family
