Camp Mystic’s owner filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, almost one year after floods in Texas Hill Country resulted in 28 deaths, including 25 campers, two counselors, and the camp’s director. The bankruptcy filing estimated the camp’s debts to be between $10 million and $50 million, with total assets ranging from $1 million to $10 million.
The camp’s management faced significant criticism regarding their handling of the floods. A comprehensive report released earlier this month condemned the camp’s emergency planning and response efforts. The report underscored inadequate preparation and poor management during the disaster.
“The lessons learned from the camp’s inadequate emergency planning and response are critical for preventing similar future tragedies,” the report stated.
The evacuation of the camp was managed by only three individuals: the camp co-owner, his son, and a security guard. Tragically, Richard “Dick” Eastland, the co-owner, lost his life in the flood.
In late April, Camp Mystic withdrew its application to reopen. This decision came after a legislative hearing attended by the parents of the deceased girls. The camp expressed respect for the grieving families by stepping back from reopening.
In November, families of the victims filed lawsuits against the camp’s operators, claiming negligence in responding to the flood threat. The damages sought exceed $1 million.
Bankruptcy proceedings have temporarily halted these lawsuits. Sarah Foss, the head of legal and restructuring at Debtwire, explained that families will need to seek compensation through the bankruptcy case rather than individual lawsuits.
The bankruptcy documents, signed by four Eastland family members, do not provide detailed financial information. Martin A. Sosland, the attorney for the camp, has not commented on the issue.
The tragically extensive floods last July claimed at least 136 lives along the Guadalupe River. Among the victims was Cecilia “Cile” Steward, an 8-year-old camper from Camp Mystic, who remains missing.