Officials identify young brothers who drowned in Brazos River in Johnson County
Two young brothers drowned in the Brazos River in Johnson County on Tuesday, officials said.
Just after 6:10 p.m., the Johnson County Sheriff's Office and multiple emergency response agencies were called to reports of possible drownings near Hamm Creek Park, outside of Rio Vista.
Deputies and first responders launched a search and rescue operation and found two children, ages 4 and 7, in the water. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Victims identified by medical examiner
On Wednesday morning, the Tarrant County Medical Examiner identified the victims as Banx McAmis, 4, and Bowyn Miller, 7.
Later, Joshua ISD confirmed that Bowyn was a student at Plum Creek Elementary and released a statement saying, in part:
"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that a Plum Creek Elementary student passed away last night in a tragic accident. The family has asked for privacy during this time of loss… Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts go out to the family and community."
The district said it would provide counseling services to students and staff.
Unclear how boys entered water
The Johnson County emergency manager said the children were in the park, but it's unclear how they ended up in the river. The sheriff's office said there is no indication of foul play.
Crews from Rio Vista, Grandview and Johnson County, along with Texas Game Wardens, responded to the scene.
State agency confirms children were brothers
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed the children were brothers and clarified their ages as 4 and 7, correcting earlier reports that listed them as 5 and 7.
The Johnson County Sheriff's Office added that the incident "serves as a sobering reminder of the key dangers of drowning in open water, especially for young children."