Texas has declared a state of disaster after catastrophic floods swept across 15 counties, leaving at least 82 people dead, including 28 children. Among the victims was Richard “Dick” Eastland, a beloved summer camp leader who died trying to save young campers from rising waters at Camp Mystic in Kerr County.

The tragedy unfolded on July 4, 2025, when flash floods hit Camp Mystic, a historic Christian girls’ camp along the Guadalupe River. Over 700 children were present when the storm surged. Eastland, 74, co-owner of the camp, was found in an SUV with three girls he had tried to evacuate from the flooded cabin. He died en route to the hospital.

As rescue crews searched for missing campers — 27 were unaccounted for on July 5 — Eastland was remembered as a father figure who led the camp with his wife, Tweety, since 1974. Many praised his final act of selflessness as a reflection of his lifelong dedication to helping children grow in confidence and faith.

Governor Greg Abbott visited the area and pledged full state support, calling for unity and prayer. Texas deployed over 1,000 responders and declared disaster zones across affected counties. As recovery efforts continue, the state mourns the lives lost and works to prevent future tragedies from striking so unprepared.