Camp Mystic Flooding: Families of 9 Victims File Lawsuits
The families of nine victims, including seven campers and two counselors, have initiated lawsuits against Camp Mystic. The tragic incident occurred during catastrophic flooding on July 4 in Kerr County, Texas. These lawsuits allege gross negligence against the camp and its owners.
Lawsuit Details
Three separate lawsuits were filed on Monday. The first lawsuit targets the families of five campers and two counselors who lost their lives: Anna Margaret Bellows, Lila Bonner, Chloe Childress, Molly DeWitt, Katherine Ferruzzo, Lainey Landry, and Blakely McCrory. The second lawsuit concerns 8-year-old Eloise “Lulu” Peck. The third lawsuit involves the family of 9-year-old Ellen Getten. All lawsuits seek damages exceeding $1 million.
Background of the Flooding
The flooding at Camp Mystic resulted in the tragic loss of at least 136 lives across the region. The Guadalupe River rose significantly, creating dangerous conditions for the campers located in cabins near the riverbank. Among the deceased was Richard “Dick” Eastland, co-owner of the camp, who died attempting to save girls during the flood.
Allegations Against Camp Mystic
- The first lawsuit accuses the camp of neglecting safety protocols.
- The allegations state that the camp prioritized profits over safety precautions.
- Camp Mystic allegedly failed to relocate cabins from flood-prone areas.
- The second lawsuit claims gross negligence due to outdated safety measures.
- The third lawsuit cites a lack of emergency response despite prior warnings.
These allegations emphasize insufficient evacuation plans and failure to act promptly during the emergency. It is claimed that the camp’s management had adequate time to prevent the tragedy but did not take necessary actions.
Responses from Camp Mystic
Camp Mystic has expressed condolences to the victims’ families. Legal representatives from the camp argue that the flooding was unprecedented and far beyond previous flood events. They contend that the camp followed protocols as best as possible given the crisis.
Changes in Safety Regulations
The tragedy at Camp Mystic has prompted serious discussions regarding camp safety regulations. In response to the disaster, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed new legislation mandating local governments to establish outdoor warning systems in areas prone to flooding.
Camp Mystic plans to partially open for the upcoming summer as it approaches its 100th anniversary. However, sections of the camp near the Guadalupe River will remain closed to ensure safety.
