Texas Flash Floods Kill 27 Camp Mystic Campers, Counselors

Devastating floods in Central Texas over the July Fourth weekend have resulted in at least 82 deaths, with Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls, suffering the loss of 27 campers and counselors. The floods, caused by a rapid rise of the Guadalupe River, swept away cabins and forced emergency evacuations in the middle of the night, with some young girls and their counselors still missing. Among the victims was Chloe Childress, a 19-year-old counselor from Houston, whose family and local community mourn her tragic death. Camp Mystic's director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, died attempting to rescue campers, highlighting the severity and suddenness of the disaster. Rescue crews and authorities continue to search for missing persons while the camp and surrounding communities grieve and receive support from first responders and officials. Survivors and witnesses recount harrowing experiences, emphasizing the shock and emotional toll on families and staff alike.