Camp Mystic neglect allegations under criminal investigation by Texas Rangers

The Texas Rangers have joined a growing state investigation into allegations of neglect connected to the deadly July 4, 2025 flooding at Camp Mystic, marking a major escalation in the case.

Officials confirmed that the Rangers are assisting the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the agency responsible for licensing youth camps across Texas. The agency has reported receiving hundreds of complaints about Camp Mystic’s operations, many tied to concerns about safety and preparedness before the flood.

Pressure is mounting from state leadership, particularly Dan Patrick, who has urged DSHS not to renew the camp’s license while investigations remain ongoing. Patrick has emphasized that Texans deserve clear answers and accountability before any decision is made about the camp’s future.

The tragedy unfolded over the Independence Day holiday weekend, when severe flooding swept through the Hill Country. Twenty-five campers and two counselors lost their lives. Camp director Richard “Dick” Eastland also died. One camper, Cile Steward, is still missing, and search efforts continue with assistance from state authorities, including the Rangers.

In the months since, multiple lawsuits have been filed by victims’ families. These legal actions target both Camp Mystic and state officials, alleging serious failures that may have contributed to the loss of life. A central claim is that the camp did not have an adequate evacuation plan in place despite known flood risks in the area.

The Steward family has taken additional legal steps to preserve evidence at the site. A judge recently ruled in their favor to halt construction and renovations at the flooded location, a move intended to prevent potential evidence from being altered or destroyed. Camp Mystic is currently appealing that decision.

Controversy has also grown around the camp’s plans to reopen its Cypress Lake location for its 100th anniversary season. While that site is not directly on the Guadalupe River, families of victims and critics argue that reopening before investigations are complete is premature and insensitive.

Camp Mystic has stated that it is cooperating with investigators and working to improve safety measures. Its public materials now reference consultations with engineers and safety experts, as well as planned upgrades aimed at preventing future tragedies. However, critics argue these efforts do not address whether negligence occurred prior to the flood.

The investigation has now expanded into three parallel tracks: the DSHS administrative review, the Texas Rangers’ involvement, and a legislative inquiry examining broader regulatory failures. Lawmakers are expected to consider whether existing camp safety regulations are sufficient and whether new laws are needed.

The Rangers’ involvement signals that authorities are taking the allegations seriously and are exploring whether criminal charges could result. At this stage, it remains unclear who, if anyone, might face charges.

For the families affected, the focus remains on accountability and answers. As the investigations move forward, the outcome could have lasting implications not only for Camp Mystic but for how youth camps across Texas are regulated and monitored in the future.