Death Toll Rises to 82 After Texas Floods; Camp Director Dies Saving Children
As of early Monday, 82 people — including at least 20 children — have died in the devastating flash floods that struck Texas over the 4th of July weekend. The Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes, sweeping through Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ summer camp. Twenty-seven campers remain missing.
Rescue teams and residents continue searching for survivors. Among the victims was Dick Eastland, longtime Camp Mystic director, who died while trying to save campers. His death was confirmed by both family and local officials. Eastland, 70, had dedicated his life to mentoring young girls and ran the camp with his family.
Rep. August Pfluger, whose daughters were rescued from the camp, praised Eastland’s sacrifice, calling him a “father figure” and “selfless leader.” Eastland died en route to a Houston hospital and leaves behind a wife, four children, and 11 grandchildren.
Former campers and staff remembered him as an inspiring mentor who taught fishing, led with compassion, and embodied service. “His last act was saving lives,” one former camper said.
The search for the missing continues.