Tragic Day at the Brazos River

What began as a peaceful family outing turned into a nightmare. By sundown on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, two young brothers went missing along the Brazos River in Johnson County, Texas. Hours later, their lifeless bodies were recovered, sending shockwaves through the quiet community.

Banx McAmis, 4, and his brother Bowyn Miller, 7, had been playing near the water’s edge at Hamm Creek Park, just outside Rio Vista. Authorities reported the boys vanished around 6:10 p.m.

Frantic Search Ends in Heartbreak

Rescue crews launched a two-hour frantic search, scouring the area until about 8:30 p.m., when the boys were pulled from the river. Despite immediate efforts, both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the deaths as accidental drownings. Foul play was not suspected.

“Unfortunately, it’s one of those situations where they looked away for a minute and it didn’t take much,” said Lt. Keven George.

A Community in Mourning

Bowyn, a second-grader at Plum Creek Elementary School, was remembered in a letter sent by Joshua Independent School District (ISD). The district offered condolences and announced counseling for students and staff.

The Sheriff’s Office also issued a public warning, urging families to prioritize water safety. Residents were reminded to supervise children closely and use life jackets near rivers, lakes, or other open water.

Multiple emergency teams joined the search, including responders from Cleburne and Grandview fire departments and Texas Game Wardens. The Sheriff’s Office thanked all involved, calling the incident an “unimaginable tragedy.”

Inseparable Brothers

Family and friends remembered Banx and Bowyn as inseparable companions.

• Banx loved Ninja Turtles, Pokémon, and splashing in puddles.

• Bowyn enjoyed karate, video games, and outdoor adventures.

“They were brothers. Best friends. Two little boys who did everything together — and now, heartbreakingly, left this world together,” a family tribute read.

Community Rallies Around Family

In response to the tragedy, the boys’ aunt, Emery Jarrel, started a GoFundMe to cover funeral and memorial costs. She described Bowyn as caring and Banx as energetic and playful.

Another fundraiser, organized by Terri Blanscet for Banx’s father, Landon McAmis, praised Banx as “the absolute sweetest soul” and his father’s world.

By Saturday, October 11, over 300 donors had contributed more than $35,000 to support the grieving family.

Lessons from Tragedy

The incident has left a lasting impact on Johnson County. Officials continue to emphasize vigilance near water and the importance of safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.