As of early Monday, the death toll from the devastating flash floods that struck Texas over the Fourth of July weekend has reached 82, including at least 20 children. Among the victims was Dick Eastland, the director of Camp Mystic, who tragically died while trying to rescue campers from rising waters.
The flooding, which caused the Guadalupe River to surge by 26 feet in just 45 minutes, overwhelmed much of the area, including Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. Rescue operations by the US Coast Guard, emergency teams, and local volunteers are ongoing, with 27 campers still unaccounted for.
Dick Eastland, 70, was one of the many who joined the efforts to save lives during the disaster. Sadly, he died while trying to help others. His nephew, Gardner Eastland, initially confirmed the news in a Facebook post, which has since been removed. Eastland’s wife, Tweety, was later found safe at home.
Congressman August Pfluger, whose daughters were rescued from the camp, publicly honored Eastland’s heroic efforts, stating:
“Camp Mystic’s Dick Eastland no doubt gave his life attempting to save his campers. For decades he and his wife poured their lives into developing girls and women of character.”
Judge Rob Kelly of Kerr County told The Washington Post that Eastland died en route to a Houston hospital by helicopter. A father of four and grandfather of 11, Dick Eastland came from a family deeply involved in running Camp Mystic since its founding in 1926. His sons, Richard and Edward, were also part of the camp’s leadership team.
The exact details of his final moments remain unclear. Eastland, a brain cancer survivor, was remembered not just as a leader, but as a father figure to hundreds of young campers. Former camper Paige Sumner wrote that she would never have tried fishing if it weren’t for Dick’s patient guidance.
“He was the dad we all looked up to during our six weeks away from home,” she said.
Eastland also served his community outside of the camp—as a school board member, youth sports coach, and mentor. His final actions—risking his life for the safety of others—reflected the same selflessness he demonstrated throughout his life.
Camp counselor Katharine Somerville described him as “one of the most selfless men in the whole world.” She added:
“He guided us in our faith and our friendships. His presence was steady, comforting, and inspirational.”