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
Cessna Aircraft Crashes Into Field During Takeoff Attempt in Batavia, Ohio; Instructor and Student Reportedly Uninjured
BATAVIA, Ohio (Clermont County) — A Cessna aircraft went down into a field after an unsuccessful takeoff attempt near Sporty’s Pilot Shop in Batavia, Ohio, according to preliminary incident information.
Both occupants, a flight instructor and a student pilot, reportedly escaped the incident without injuries.
The aircraft crash was reported near 2001 Sporty’s Drive in Batavia, in Clermont County. Initial information indicates that the Cessna failed to take off and went down into a nearby field.
Two people were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident. They were identified in the initial report as a flight instructor and a student pilot.
Both occupants reportedly exited the aircraft and were reported to be uninjured. According to the preliminary information, they were being transported back to Sporty’s Pilot Shop following the incident.
No injuries were reported in the information provided, although further official confirmation may be needed.
The incident occurred in the area of Sporty’s Drive in Batavia, a community in Clermont County, Ohio. The aircraft reportedly entered a field after failing to become airborne during its takeoff attempt.
Details about the aircraft’s condition, the precise circumstances of the failed takeoff and whether emergency crews or aviation investigators responded were not immediately available in the initial report.
The cause of the incident has not been established, and no additional information about possible damage to the aircraft was provided.
This is a developing story. Further details may become available as authorities confirm the circumstances surrounding the incident.