Two Young Brothers, Ages 4 and 7, Found Dead After Playing Together in Johnson County — Full Details
What began as a peaceful family outing along the Brazos River in Johnson County, Texas, turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on the evening of Tuesday, October 7, 2025. Two young brothers, Banx McAmis, 4, and Bowyn Miller, 7, went missing while playing near the water at Hamm Creek Park, just outside Rio Vista, around 6:10 p.m.
A rapid and extensive search was launched, involving the Cleburne and Grandview fire departments and Texas Game Wardens. After nearly two hours, at approximately 8:30 p.m., rescue teams recovered the boys’ bodies from the river. Despite immediate medical attention, both children were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving their family and the close-knit community in profound shock and grief.
According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the boys had been playing alongside their parents when they went missing. Lt. Keven George noted, “Unfortunately, it only takes a brief moment of distraction.” The Johnson County Medical Examiner later confirmed that both deaths were accidental drownings. Authorities emphasized there was no suspicion of foul play and reminded families to maintain strict supervision of children near open water and to use life jackets, especially in natural areas where conditions can change rapidly.
Bowyn, a second-grade student at Plum Creek Elementary School, was mourned deeply by the Joshua Independent School District. The district shared condolences with families and announced that counseling services would be available for students and staff affected by the loss. The tragedy has left a lasting impact on the school community, which is grappling with the loss of one of its youngest members.