Local News
Camp Mystic Director Dick Eastland dead following devastating floods in Texas
HUNT, Texas — Camp Mystic Director Dick Eastland has been confirmed among the deceased following the catastrophic flash flooding that swept through Central Texas this week.
Eastland, a longtime leader and pillar of the Camp Mystic community, is remembered for his enduring strength—having previously overcome personal tragedies including the loss of his son and grandson, a battle with brain cancer, and significant challenges in preserving the camp’s legacy for future generations.
Ellen Troxclair confirmed to Channel 2 NOW that at least 10 individuals from Camp Mystic have been confirmed deceased, including longtime camp director Dick Eastland and several young campers.
This brings the total number of lives lost to at least 35, following the 25 fatalities reported the previous night.
The unprecedented flooding, caused by more than 15 inches of rainfall across Kerr County, triggered a massive surge along the Guadalupe River.
One of Camp Mystic’s cabins was swept away by the floodwaters during the early hours, resulting in a large-scale emergency response.
Two of the victims have been identified as Janie Hunt and Renee Smajstrla, both of whom were previously listed as missing.
Their deaths have deeply shaken the Camp Mystic community and families across the region.
Tornado Tacklers Statement: With heavy hearts, we share devastating news out of Texas tonight. State officials have confirmed that 13 young girls, ages 7 to 10, from Camp Mystic have tragically lost their lives due to the catastrophic flooding. At least 20 others remain unaccounted for as search and rescue efforts continue.
Search and rescue operations remain ongoing, involving hundreds of personnel, aircraft, and boats.
Officials have described the situation as a “mass casualty event,” and continue to urge residents to stay away from affected areas to allow responders full access.
As the community reels from the devastation, faith leaders and families are calling for prayer chains nationwide to support the victims, their loved ones, and the brave individuals involved in rescue efforts.
Local News
Suspended Dearborn Ford worker Thomas Sabula received more than $320K after Trump flips him off
DEARBORN, Mich. — A suspended Ford Motor Company employee has become the focus of national attention after a confrontation with former President Donald Trump during a visit to a Dearborn assembly plant, prompting an outpouring of public support that has raised more than $324,000 for his family through an online fundraiser.
The worker, Thomas “TJ” Sabula, a 40-year-old United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 600 member, was placed on suspension pending an internal investigation following an exchange that occurred while Trump was touring the facility.
According to video later obtained and published by TMZ, an off-camera voice can be heard shouting “pedophile protector” at the former president, an apparent reference to the administration’s handling of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
In the footage, Trump appears to mouth an expletive and make a hand gesture before walking away.
The Washington Post subsequently identified Sabula as the individual who made the remark.
In an interview with the newspaper, Sabula confirmed that he was suspended after the incident and said he believes the action amounts to political retaliation.
“As far as calling him out, definitely no regrets whatsoever,” Sabula told The Post. “But I am concerned about my job. I believe I’ve been targeted for political retribution for embarrassing him in front of his friends.”
Sabula, who describes himself as politically independent, said he has never voted for Trump, though he has supported Republican candidates in the past.
In the days following the incident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist Sabula and his family during his suspension.
The campaign states that Sabula is “a father of two young children, a husband, and a proud UAW Local 600 line worker,” and that the funds will be used to help cover household and living expenses “during this time of uncertainty.” Donations quickly surged past $100,000, with notable contributions reportedly made by the rock band Dropkick Murphys.
Supporters have characterized Sabula’s actions as a form of protest and free expression, while others have questioned whether his conduct violated workplace policies.
Ford Motor Company and union representatives have not publicly released details regarding the status of the internal investigation or whether disciplinary action beyond the suspension is being considered.
Following his visit to the Dearborn plant, Trump went on to deliver remarks at the Detroit Economic Club, where he had last spoken in October 2024.
The incident continues to draw attention amid broader political debate, as questions remain about workplace discipline, free speech, and the role of political expression in employment settings.