Casey Garrett told Texas lawmakers the July 4 flood killed 25 campers, two counselors, and the camp’s executive director, citing no evacuation plan or emergency training.
Garrett described chaotic rescue efforts, counselors improvising evacuations, and critical delays after flash flood warnings. She concluded the tragedy was preventable and highlighted failures by camp leadership, especially owner Richard Eastland.
Camp Mystic faces lawsuits, ongoing investigations, and calls to deny its operating license. Lawmakers have already passed new camp safety rules, while families and officials demand accountability and improved protections for future campers.
With 22 safety violations, how can Camp Mystic reopen just one month from now?
The camp’s evacuation plan was “in the owner’s head.” How many other camps operate on blind faith?
He died saving campers, but his rules led to disaster. Was the camp's owner a hero?
Trained to obey, counselors feared punishment for saving lives. What does this reveal about youth camps?
Why is Texas waiting until 2027 for new laws while Alabama has already acted?