Texas lawmakers launch new investigation into July flood disaster

A 10-foot cross is seen along the banks of the Guadalupe River in front of Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, on July 18, 2025. The Washington Post/Getty Images

A group of Texas lawmakers have been appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the catastrophic July 4 flooding that killed at least 136 people in central Texas.

“In July, Texans were deeply saddened by the deadly flooding on the Guadalupe River, where amongst many others, 27 vibrant young girls were lost from one camp, Camp Mystic,” Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, said in a Monday statement announcing the investigative committee.

The campers and counselors died after torrential rain forced water levels on the river, which snakes through multiple summer camps in the region, to rise from 3 feet to 30 feet in a matter of hours. Th