Texas authorities investigate manslaughter and other crimes linked to 27 flood-related deaths at Camp Mystic.

A criminal investigation is currently underway regarding Camp Mystic, a long-established Christian summer camp in Texas, following the tragic deaths of 27 girls during catastrophic flooding last year. Recent court documents indicate that the investigation could potentially involve charges of manslaughter or negligent homicide.

Last week, investigators executed search warrants aimed at obtaining the electronic communications of the camp’s owners, suggesting these records might hold crucial evidence linked to offenses including child abandonment and other serious crimes. While no formal charges have been filed to date, a representative from Camp Mystic has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the investigation.

According to an affidavit from Brant Johnston of the Texas Rangers, it has been suggested that Camp Mystic’s emergency preparedness was severely lacking. The camp reportedly failed to conduct necessary emergency drills and training, and many cabins did not have an adequate number of adult counselors present. Despite having access to flood warnings throughout the night preceding the incident, the camp’s management allegedly did not take appropriate measures to evacuate children from cabins situated in low-lying areas.

Tragically, on July 4, 2025, the raging waters of the Guadalupe River overflowed, leading to the deaths of 25 campers and two teenage counselors. Richard Eastland, the owner of Camp Mystic, also lost his life as the floodwaters surged. For decades, the camp had been a cherished summer destination for families, where girls engaged in various activities ranging from horseback riding to Bible study. However, it did not reopen this year and has since filed for bankruptcy reorganization.

Overall, the devastating floods that swept through the region claimed at least 136 lives along several miles of the river, prompting widespread scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding such a catastrophic event.

Attorneys representing victims’ families have expressed their support for the search warrants, while emphasizing that they should not have been necessary in the first place. They conveyed the anguish of families who have sought accountability and clarity regarding the final moments of their loved ones. The body of one victim, Cile Steward, remains undiscovered.

Investigative efforts have included multiple visits to Camp Mystic and interviews with witnesses and flood victims. However, some key figures, including members of the Eastland family and other camp officials, have reportedly declined to cooperate with investigators. Despite this, the Eastland family has previously testified in various legal settings, with camp director Edward Eastland providing a public apology regarding the incidents. The ongoing investigation continues to shed light on the series of events that led to this tragic loss of life.