Home / Crime and Justice / Texas Rangers Probe Camp Mystic Deaths
Texas Rangers Probe Camp Mystic Deaths
23 Sep
Summary
- Texas Rangers are investigating Camp Mystic after 28 deaths in floods.
- Investigators are examining potential manslaughter and homicide charges.
- The camp lacked a state-compliant emergency plan.
Texas Rangers are conducting a criminal investigation into Camp Mystic, a Christian sleepaway camp, in the wake of the deaths of 28 individuals during severe flooding on July 4, 2025. The probe, initiated in March 2026, centers on whether leadership could face criminal charges, including manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and child abandonment.
This inquiry stems from a state report released in June 2026, which found Camp Mystic lacked a written emergency plan that met state requirements. Investigators noted that the plan seemed to exist only in the memory of camp director Dick Eastland, who was among the deceased. Camp Mystic withdrew its license application in April 2026 and did not reopen for the summer season.
The investigation involves examining electronic data from camp leadership and employees, with investigators reportedly being denied interviews. The camp filed for bankruptcy in June 2026, and civil lawsuits have been filed by families of the deceased campers.
