Full Breakdown
Camp Mystic Directors Apologize at Texas Legislative Hearing Over 2025 Flood Tragedy
4/29/2026, 5:08:33 AM
Apology and Legislative Hearing
On April 28, 2026, Edward Eastland, director of Camp Mystic, delivered a tearful apology to families of the 25 campers and two counselors killed in the July 4, 2025 flood. The remarks opened a two-day special legislative hearing in Austin, where lawmakers examined the camp’s emergency preparedness and its plan to reopen in May.
Flood Tragedy and Camp History
Camp Mystic, a 100-year-old all-girls Christian camp on the Guadalupe River near Hunt, Texas, was struck by a flash flood on July 4, 2025. Heavy rain caused the river to breach its banks, killing 25 campers and two counselors, including co-owner Richard Eastland.
Key Stakeholders
Key figures include Edward Eastland and his siblings Britt, Richard (named after their father) and Mary Liz Eastland, who serve as camp directors and medical director. State senators Charles Perry and Lois Kolkhorst led the hearing, while Texas regulators review the camp’s license.
Timeline
- July 4, 2025 – Flood kills 27.
- April 28, 2026 – Hearing and apology.
- Late May 2026 – Planned limited reopening.
Data and Safety Findings
The flood claimed 25 campers and two counselors. Investigators identified 22 emergency-plan deficiencies, noting missing flood drills and a non-functional PA system. The camp aims to host 900 girls.
Official Statements and Responses
Edward Eastland said the camp “tried our hardest that night” and called families’ anger “completely reasonable.” Britt Eastland pledged training and drills for floods, fire and tornadoes. Sen. Charles Perry warned that “all of these things should have been being done in the first place.” Sen. Lois Kolkhorst asked, “Are you ready to take on 500-plus children?”
Criticism and Opposition
Lawmakers pressed why the camp lacked a functional PA system, flood drills, and a higher-ground evacuation order. Mary Liz Eastland admitted she has not formally reported the deaths to health officials. Several families left after Britt Eastland declared the camp “ready” and “glad we had camp this summer.” State officials urged regulators to deny or delay the license renewal.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The legislative panel does not control the license renewal, and a written findings report is due later this year. No official death report has been filed with health officials.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We tried our hardest that night. It wasn’t enough to save your daughters,” — Edward Eastland, Camp Mystic Director
- “The world was a better place with them in it and the anger at us for not being able to keep them safe is completely reasonable.” — Edward Eastland, Camp Mystic Director
- “All of these things should have been being done in the first place,” — Sen. Charles Perry, Texas State Senator
- “Are you ready to take on 500-plus children,” — Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, Texas State Senator
- “We are ready,” — Britt Eastland, Camp Mystic Director
What’s Next
Regulators will decide on the license renewal later in 2026; the camp plans to appeal any denial and may reopen pending approval.
