Camp Mystic and the Eastland family mourn the loss of 27 campers and honor Dick Eastland’s heroic efforts during the tragic flood.
SAN ANTONIO — Camp Mystic and the family of the camp director killed while trying to save girls from the raging floodwaters is speaking out, giving condolences and gratitude to the community but also showing their support of whatever is passed by the Legislature.
Longtime owner and director of Camp Mystic Dick Eastland died while trying to save and protect campers from the floods.
Eastland was described as a father figure to campers while they were away from their parents for six weeks during the summer as he would reportedly keep up with his campers, attending weddings and other meaningful moments.
On Thursday, Camp Mystic and the Eastland family released the following statement:
We are heartbroken over the loss of 27 precious campers and counselors at Camp Mystic. We are so inspired by the parents who, in the midst of their unimaginable grief, shared their daughters’ stories. We are praying for them and all those in our community who, like us, lost loved ones on July 4.
We join the families in supporting legislation that will make camps and communities along the Guadalupe River safer, especially the creation of detection and warning systems that would have saved lives on July 4. Dick Eastland gave his life fighting to save the girls whose care was entrusted to Camp Mystic.
Whatever is included in the final measure passed by the Legislature, Camp Mystic will go above and beyond to support the safety and well-being of every camper and counselor.
Despite our collective and continued grief, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible first responders, volunteers and search and rescue teams who have stepped forward during our community’s greatest time of need. Their continued bravery, tireless dedication and compassion, especially amid the ongoing search and recovery efforts, have brought hope and comfort to so many. Their actions remind us of the strength we have when we come together.
Honoring the lives of the 27 precious campers and counselors has been and will continue to be our focus.