In brief
Glenn Juenke, a security guard at Camp Mystic, testified about the flash flood that occurred on July 4th, highlighting moments where the camp's response could have been more effective. He indicated that had an evacuation order been issued earlier, many lives, including those of the 25 campers and two counselors who died, might have been saved. Families of the deceased remain outraged over the camp's reopening plans amidst ongoing litigation.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — In a recent hearing related to the tragic flood at Camp Mystic, a security guard revealed that an early evacuation order might have saved lives. Glenn Juenke, who helped move campers to safety before getting trapped himself, stated that he made the decision to instruct a group of girls to seek higher ground, highlighting the lack of training among counselors regarding emergency protocols.
The hearing was part of a legal battle between the camp operators seeking to reopen and families of the victims who perished during the catastrophic event on July 4th, when a sudden storm flooded the area. Juenke, testifying on behalf of the camp operators, described his efforts to rescue campers, stating that he was not directed to issue evacuation orders but took action based on the unfolding crisis.
Juenke expressed regret over the camp’s inadequacy in emergency preparedness, mentioning that there was no established protocol for such a flood. As floodwaters rose, he recalled feeling overwhelmed as he initially tried to drive out girls to safety but eventually had to abandon his truck as conditions worsened. He managed to keep several campers afloat on air mattresses while awaiting rescue.
The emotional testimony drew attention to the absence of a clear evacuation strategy, with attorneys for the victims’ families emphasizing that lives could have been spared with proactive measures. They criticized the camp’s insufficient communication methods and the reliance on a brief emergency notice that was posted just two days prior to the disaster.
In total, 25 campers and two counselors lost their lives that night, with families of the deceased expressing their anger and heartache over the camp's plans to reopen while investigations are still ongoing. A judge previously mandated the preservation of damaged areas for evidence, a ruling currently under appeal, as families seek justice for their loved ones.
As the investigation continues, the shortcomings revealed in this hearing may impact the future operational status of Camp Mystic, ensuring that the memories of the victims are honored and protected from similar tragedies in the future.
