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Families sue Texas camp over deadly July 4 floods, allege negligence
Families of seven victims who died in the catastrophic July 4 floods at Camp Mystic in central Texas have filed a lawsuit against the Christian camp, accusing its owners of gross negligence and prioritizing profit over safety. The legal action, submitted Monday in Austin's state court, seeks over $1 million in damages.
27 deaths amid ignored warnings
The lawsuit claims camp operators disregarded repeated warnings about the flood-prone location of cabins along the Guadalupe River, as well as forecasts of severe storms. According to the filing, staff failed to evacuate campers despite escalating risks and internal alerts from counselors. "The camp ignored warnings about the approaching July 4 storm and life-threatening flood risks," the document states, adding that inaction persisted even as waters rose that morning.
Twenty-seven children and counselors perished when flash floods overwhelmed the camp during Independence Day celebrations. The tragedy drew national attention, particularly given the camp's 99-year history and its known vulnerability to flooding. Camp co-owner and director Dick Eastland also died in the disaster.
Camp disputes allegations, cites "unprecedented" flood
Jeff Ray, an attorney for Camp Mystic's operators, called the flood "horrific and unprecedented," arguing its scale exceeded historical records. "No adequate warning systems existed in the area," he told the BBC, emphasizing the sudden surge of water. The camp separately expressed condolences, stating it continues to "pray for the grieving families."
"These young girls died because a for-profit camp put profit over safety."
Excerpt from the lawsuit
Broader legal and legislative fallout
The lawsuit follows earlier legal actions, including a separate claim by the family of eight-year-old Eloise "Lulu" Peck and another by six additional victim families. In response to the disaster, Texas lawmakers have since passed measures restricting camps in flood zones, mandating emergency training for staff, and funding statewide siren installations.
The camp's announcement of a partial reopening next year has faced backlash from some victims' families, further intensifying scrutiny of its safety protocols.
