Country Singer Granger Smith Confirmed That His 3-Year-Old Son Died in a Drowning Accident

Country singer Granger Smith and his wife Amber Bartlett have confirmed how their 3-year-old son River passed away. After sharing that his son died in a tragic accident on social media on June 6, Granger's rep later told People that River "died in a tragic drowning accident at home."

"I have to deliver unthinkable news. We've lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith," he wrote on Instagram and Twitter. "Following a tragic accident, and despite doctor's best efforts, he was unable to be revived. Amber and I made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life."

"Our family is devastated and heartbroken, but we take solace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father," he wrote. "Riv was special. Everyone that met him knew that immediately. The joy he brought to our lives cannot be expressed and his light will be forever in our hearts. If there are words to say more, I cannot find them in this moment. Love the ones close to you. There has never been a more difficult moment for us than this." Granger ended his Instagram post by commending the doctors and nurses for their efforts. "In lieu of flowers or gifts, please send donations to Dell Children's Medical Center in River's name," he said. "The doctors, nurses and staff have been incredible."

Although this was a tragic accident, parents should take every single precaution possible while their children are near water. Here are some guidelines parents should keep in mind:

  • Keep your eyes on your kids at all times. If you're at a pool party, make sure there's one designated adult who's watching the swimmers. And that means no cell phones, no reading, and no chit-chat with friends.
  • Enroll children in swimming lessons at a young age. Although babies surely won't master the skills first thing, the sooner you get them comfortable in the water, the better.
  • Make sure kids have proper floatation devices on if they can't swim — such as puddle jumpers or a Coast Guard-approved life jacket — even when they are near the water but aren't swimming yet.
  • Teach kids to stay away from drains, suction outlets, and filters in swimming pools and hot tubs.
  • Stick close by or always ensure that an adult is within arm's reach. This way, they will be able to immediately jump into action if there's a problem.
  • Tie long hair back, and remove any dangling jewelry or lose strings from your child's swimsuits (to avoid any dangerous situations with drains or suction outlets).
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