The Texas Board of Nursing has temporarily suspended the nursing license of Mary Elizabeth Eastland, the chief health officer at Camp Mystic, following a tragic flood last year that resulted in the deaths of 27 campers and counselors. The all-girls Christian summer camp, located along the Guadalupe River, faced severe flooding on July 4, 2025.
Investigation Findings
According to documents released by the Texas Board of Nursing, Eastland failed to establish adequate emergency plans and training procedures for the camp’s staff and attendees. The board highlighted that Eastland should have been aware of the camp’s history of severe flooding and criticized her for not developing an effective emergency shelter or evacuation plan.
The board’s findings indicated that Eastland’s lack of preparedness likely contributed to the unsafe environment that led to physical, emotional, and psychological harm, as well as loss of life during the disaster. Additionally, Eastland faced accusations of abandoning campers and staff during the flooding, improper handling of medical duties, and failing to report the deaths within the required timeframe.
Testimony and Legal Proceedings
During an April hearing in Austin, Eastland testified that she did not report the deaths to the state health agency as required by Texas administrative rules. She stated that she was unaware of the requirement in the immediate aftermath of the flood. Eastland also mentioned that she could not recall when she learned of the fatalities, which included her father-in-law, Richard Eastland.
Eastland faced questioning from attorneys representing the victims’ families, who accused her of prioritizing her own family during the disaster. Eastland defended her actions, stating that she helped those she could reach, including her children, who were not campers.
The Texas Board of Nursing determined that Eastland’s continued practice posed a threat to public welfare, leading to the suspension of her license. A probable cause hearing is scheduled within 17 days of the suspension, with a final hearing within 61 days.
Camp Mystic’s Future
Eastland expressed willingness for her family to step away from operating the camp if it could remain open. However, Camp Mystic announced it would not reopen this summer. Joshua C. Fiveson, Eastland’s attorney, criticized the board’s decision, claiming it was an exercise in premature punishment without due process.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
