Pets n Story

What was supposed to be a peaceful family outing along the Brazos River in Johnson County, Texas, turned into a devastating tragedy when two young brothers, Banx McAmis, 4, and Bowyn Miller, 7, were found dead after going missing while playing near the water’s edge. The heartbreaking loss has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community. On the evening of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the boys disappeared around 6:10 p.m. at Hamm Creek Park, just outside Rio Vista.

A frantic and extensive two-hour search effort was launched, involving multiple emergency response teams from the Cleburne and Grandview fire departments, as well as Texas Game Wardens. At approximately 8:30 p.m., rescue crews recovered the boys’ bodies from the river. Despite immediate medical attention, both children were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving their family and the entire community devastated.

According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the boys had been playing with their parents when they went missing. Lt. Keven George explained, “Unfortunately, it only takes a brief moment of distraction.” The Johnson County Medical Examiner later ruled both deaths accidental drownings. Authorities confirmed there is no suspicion of foul play. In the wake of the tragedy, the Sheriff’s Office issued a public reminder urging families to prioritize water safety by closely supervising children around open water and using life jackets, especially in natural settings where conditions can change suddenly.

Bowyn, who was a second-grade student at Plum Creek Elementary School, was remembered with deep sympathy by the Joshua Independent School District. The district sent a letter to families expressing condolences and announced that counseling support would be made available for students and staff affected by the loss. The tragedy has profoundly affected the school community, which mourns the loss of one of its youngest members.

Family members described Banx as a lively, energetic child who loved Ninja Turtles, Pokémon, and splashing in puddles, while Bowyn enjoyed karate, video games, and outdoor activities. The brothers were inseparable—best friends who shared everything together and tragically left the world side by side. One tribute read, “They were brothers. Best friends. Two little boys who did everything together — and now, heartbreakingly, left this world together.”

In response to the tragedy, the boys’ aunt, Emery Jarrel, started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral and memorial expenses. She remembered Bowyn as a caring second grader who loved spending time with his siblings, while Banx was described as an endlessly energetic and playful spirit. Another fundraiser was organized by family friend Terri Blanscet for Banx’s father, Landon McAmis, describing Banx as “the absolute sweetest soul” who was his father’s “whole world.” She asked for prayers and support for the grieving family during this difficult time. By Saturday, October 11, over 300 donors had contributed more than $35,000 to assist the family.

This unimaginable tragedy has united the Johnson County community in grief, while also highlighting the vital importance of water safety awareness. Officials continue to remind everyone to exercise caution and close supervision of children near water to prevent similar heartbreaks. Though Banx and Bowyn are no longer with us, their memory lives on in the hearts of their family and community as a solemn reminder of life’s fragility and the need for vigilance.

What was supposed to be a peaceful family outing along the Brazos River in Johnson County, Texas, turned into a devastating tragedy when two young brothers, Banx McAmis, 4, and Bowyn Miller, 7, were found dead after going missing while playing near the water’s edge. The heartbreaking loss has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community. On the evening of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the boys disappeared around 6:10 p.m. at Hamm Creek Park, just outside Rio Vista.

A frantic and extensive two-hour search effort was launched, involving multiple emergency response teams from the Cleburne and Grandview fire departments, as well as Texas Game Wardens. At approximately 8:30 p.m., rescue crews recovered the boys’ bodies from the river. Despite immediate medical attention, both children were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving their family and the entire community devastated.

According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the boys had been playing with their parents when they went missing. Lt. Keven George explained, “Unfortunately, it only takes a brief moment of distraction.” The Johnson County Medical Examiner later ruled both deaths accidental drownings. Authorities confirmed there is no suspicion of foul play. In the wake of the tragedy, the Sheriff’s Office issued a public reminder urging families to prioritize water safety by closely supervising children around open water and using life jackets, especially in natural settings where conditions can change suddenly.

Bowyn, who was a second-grade student at Plum Creek Elementary School, was remembered with deep sympathy by the Joshua Independent School District. The district sent a letter to families expressing condolences and announced that counseling support would be made available for students and staff affected by the loss. The tragedy has profoundly affected the school community, which mourns the loss of one of its youngest members.

Family members described Banx as a lively, energetic child who loved Ninja Turtles, Pokémon, and splashing in puddles, while Bowyn enjoyed karate, video games, and outdoor activities. The brothers were inseparable—best friends who shared everything together and tragically left the world side by side. One tribute read, “They were brothers. Best friends. Two little boys who did everything together — and now, heartbreakingly, left this world together.”

In response to the tragedy, the boys’ aunt, Emery Jarrel, started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral and memorial expenses. She remembered Bowyn as a caring second grader who loved spending time with his siblings, while Banx was described as an endlessly energetic and playful spirit. Another fundraiser was organized by family friend Terri Blanscet for Banx’s father, Landon McAmis, describing Banx as “the absolute sweetest soul” who was his father’s “whole world.” She asked for prayers and support for the grieving family during this difficult time. By Saturday, October 11, over 300 donors had contributed more than $35,000 to assist the family.

This unimaginable tragedy has united the Johnson County community in grief, while also highlighting the vital importance of water safety awareness. Officials continue to remind everyone to exercise caution and close supervision of children near water to prevent similar heartbreaks. Though Banx and Bowyn are no longer with us, their memory lives on in the hearts of their family and community as a solemn reminder of life’s fragility and the need for vigilance.