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The director of Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls’ camp in Hunt, Texas, was killed while trying to rescue campers during last week’s devastating flood, according to multiple reports.
Richard “Dick” Eastland, a long-time camp owner and father of four, died after saving several girls as floodwaters surged through the Hill Country early Friday morning. He reportedly passed away aboard a helicopter en route to a Houston hospital.
“It doesn’t surprise me at all that his last act of kindness and sacrifice was working to save the lives of campers,” wrote guest columnist Paige Sumner in a tribute published by the Kerrville Daily Times. Eastland, beloved by generations of campers, was remembered as a father figure to hundreds of girls each summer.
While officials have not confirmed all details, social media reports from those close to the family suggest Eastland saved as many as five girls before he collapsed.
Rising death toll and ongoing search
As of Sunday morning, at least 43 people—including 15 children—have been confirmed dead in Kerr County alone, according to the Associated Press. Another eight fatalities have been reported in surrounding counties. The death toll is expected to rise as the recovery operation continues.
A surge of nearly 30 cm of rain fell in the area Friday, turning the Guadalupe River into a violent torrent. Many campers were still in bed when the flood hit.
As of Saturday evening, 27 girls from Camp Mystic were still unaccounted for, nearly 36 hours after the waters swept through the property.
The camp, which sits along the riverbank and is bordered by steep cliffs, was quickly inundated. Helicopters, drones, and volunteer rescue teams—including the United Cajun Navy—have been working around the clock in treacherous conditions to search for survivors.
“There was nowhere for these kids to go,” said one rescuer. “The buildings were just carved out from the inside.” (CNN)
A community in grief, and prayer
The loss of Eastland adds another layer of grief to a community already shaken by the deaths of at least four campers, including 8-year-olds Renee Smajstrla and Sarah Marsh, and 9-year-olds Janie Hunt and Lila Bonner.
In tributes posted across social media, former campers, staff, and parents have expressed sorrow and solidarity with those still waiting for news.
“Camp Mystic has always been a place of faith, friendship, and deep-rooted tradition,” one mother wrote. “Today, we cling to that faith more than ever.”