Two Brothers, 4 and 7, Found Dead after Playing Together in Johnson County — Details

It was meant to be a peaceful family outing by the river. But by sundown, two young brothers were missing. By nightfall, their lifeless bodies were pulled from the water, sending shockwaves through a quiet Texas community.

Banx McAmis, just four years old, and his seven-year-old brother Bowyn Miller were discovered dead on the evening of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, along the Brazos River in Johnson County, Texas.

Authorities revealed that the boys had been playing by the water's edge at Hamm Creek Park, just outside Rio Vista, when they vanished around 6:10 p.m.

What was described as a "frantic two-hour search" followed. Rescue crews scoured the area until, at around 8:30 p.m., the children were recovered from the river. Despite immediate efforts, they were pronounced dead at the scene, devastating the family and the surrounding community.

A Split-Second Distraction Ends in Devastation

According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the boys had been at the park with their parents. Lt. Keven George shared, "Unfortunately, it's one of those situations where they looked away for a minute and it didn't take much."

The Johnson County Medical Examiner later confirmed both deaths as accidental drownings. Investigators added that foul play was not suspected.

A Loss That Touches the Entire School Community

Bowyn, a second-grader at Plum Creek Elementary School, was remembered in a letter sent to families by Joshua Independent School District (ISD). The district expressed its deep condolences and confirmed that counseling teams would be available to support grieving students and staff.

In a somber public message, the Sheriff's Office urged residents to prioritize water safety and remain vigilant when children are near open bodies of water. The department emphasized the use of life jackets and close supervision, especially in natural environments where conditions can change rapidly.

Multiple emergency crews, including responders from the Cleburne and Grandview fire departments and Texas Game Wardens, joined the search efforts. The Sheriff’s Office publicly thanked all teams involved and extended their heartfelt condolences, calling the incident an "unimaginable tragedy."

Best Friends Who Left This World Together

Family members painted a picture of two inseparable brothers. Banx was described as full of life, brimming with energy, and fond of Ninja Turtles, Pokémon, and splashing in puddles. Bowyn loved karate, video games, and spending time outdoors with his siblings.

"They were brothers. Best friends. Two little boys who did everything together — and now, heartbreakingly, left this world together," one emotional tribute read.

Outpouring of Support as Community Rallies Behind the Family

In the wake of the tragedy, the boys' aunt, Emery Jarrel, launched a GoFundMe to assist with funeral and memorial costs. She remembered Bowyn as a caring second grader who cherished time with his brother and sister, while Banx was endlessly energetic, always eager to play — rain or shine.

Another fundraiser, organized by Terri Blanscet for Banx’s father, Landon McAmis, described the little boy as "the absolute sweetest soul" and shared that Banx had been his father's "world."

She added, "Even if all you can do is say a prayer for Landon and our family, it will be much appreciated."

By Saturday, October 11, more than 300 people had contributed to the two campaigns, raising over $35,000 to help the grieving family cope with their devastating loss.