TEXAS — As cleanup efforts continue following the severe storm that swept through the Camp Mystic area, several local residents have made a surprising discovery that has now been turned over to authorities.
On Sunday afternoon, volunteers assisting with debris removal near a wooded trail behind Camp Mystic came across a worn, smelly sack partially buried in mud and tangled brush. At first, they believed it to be storm trash or forgotten camp equipment.
However, when they opened the sack, its contents left everyone momentarily stunned.
“It wasn’t what we expected,” said Clara Mendoza, one of the residents helping clean up.
“There was a strong odor, and inside were what looked like pieces of clothing, soaked and very old. It just didn’t feel right.”
Contents Under Review
Local law enforcement has since collected the sack for examination. Officers have not released full details, but confirmed that it contained:
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A partially intact sweater, believed to be a child’s size
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Fragments of lined paper, possibly from a journal or camp notebook
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A small wooden charm resembling a handmade name tag
“We are treating this as a possible piece of evidence,” a sheriff’s deputy said.
“It’s too early to make conclusions, but the location and timing are important.”
Connection to Camp Mystic Case?
While police have not directly linked the sack to the ongoing investigation into the 27 missing girls from Camp Mystic, the discovery was made within walking distance of the camp’s southeast boundary, near a service path previously submerged during the flooding.
This area has only recently become accessible again due to receding waters.
Community Response
Residents in the area remain cautious but hopeful that the discovery may help shed more light on what happened the night of the storm.
“It’s a small clue, maybe,” one local said.
“But any clue matters now.”
Authorities say they are continuing to collect and examine any unusual items found in the aftermath of the storm, and are encouraging residents to report anything suspicious — no matter how small.