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 its 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.