A wave of sorrow has swept through the hearts of families and residents across Georgia following a tragic drowning incident at the Ocmulgee River that claimed the lives of three innocent children. Authorities and loved ones have confirmed the devastating deaths of Skyler Worthen, age 10, Summer McRae, age 7, and Johnny Collins III, whose age has not yet been released. Each of these young souls was full of life, love, and promise—a promise that was heartbreakingly cut short on what began as a day of summer recreation.
The tragedy unfolded near the popular Ocmulgee River recreation area, a place usually filled with laughter, sunshine, and the joyful echoes of children at play. But on this day, joy turned to devastation in an instant. According to the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, authorities received an emergency call reporting that multiple children had gone underwater and never resurfaced.
Emergency personnel rushed to the scene. Despite rapid response and immediate efforts to rescue the children, the loss proved unpreventable.
At 2:58 p.m., Deputy Coroner Ronnie Miley pronounced Skyler Worthen deceased at the scene. Skyler was described by family and teachers as a bright, inquisitive, and compassionate boy who loved animals and dreamed of becoming a firefighter one day. He had an unforgettable laugh, a warm heart, and a remarkable gift for making others smile. His absence will leave a deep void in the hearts of his classmates, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.
Earlier that morning, at 10:06 a.m., authorities also confirmed the death of Summer McRae, a tender and spirited 7-year-old girl who radiated joy. Her curly hair, colorful personality, and love of music made her a shining light in her family and school. Summer had just learned how to ride her bike without training wheels and had recently started writing her own songs in a little notebook she carried everywhere. Her family remembers her as their “sunshine girl”—a nickname she earned for her ability to light up even the darkest room.
The third young victim, Johnny Collins III, was recovered later as search and recovery efforts intensified. Details of his passing are still unfolding, but community members have come forward with loving memories of a joyful and kindhearted boy with a passion for sports and superheroes. Johnny was known for his generous nature—always the first to offer his snack to a friend or give a comforting hug when someone was sad. His family is now clinging to their faith and each other in the face of a loss that no words can fully capture.
Together, these three young lives were bright threads in the fabric of their families and community. Their sudden absence has left behind an ocean of grief, questions, and aching hearts.
The circumstances surrounding the drowning are under active investigation by Georgia wildlife officers and local authorities. At this time, no foul play is suspected. Officials are working closely with the victims’ families to offer updates and provide resources in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy.
The heartbreak of this incident reverberates far beyond the banks of the Ocmulgee River. It is a loss that has shaken school districts, church communities, and neighborhoods across multiple counties. In the face of such devastating grief, residents have begun gathering for prayer vigils, memorials, and fundraisers to support the grieving families and honor the lives of Skyler, Summer, and Johnny.
A temporary memorial of flowers, stuffed animals, and hand-written notes has formed near the site where the tragedy occurred. Messages like “Fly high, little angels,” and “We will never forget you,” are taped alongside drawings and school photos of the children—reminders of the innocence lost and the love that remains.
Grief counselors have been made available to the children’s schools, and the community has come together to provide meals, transportation, and financial support for the families navigating funeral arrangements and other urgent needs.
As the days go on, the pain may not lessen quickly, but the strength of this community, united in mourning and love, serves as a beacon of hope in this time of darkness.
To honor the memory of Skyler Worthen, Summer McRae, and Johnny Collins III, donations can be made to local drowning prevention education efforts or to a memorial fund being established by family members to help cover expenses and create lasting tributes in their names.
Though their lives were brief, the light these children brought into the world will never fade. May they rest in eternal peace, and may their loved ones find comfort in the embrace of a community that grieves with them, remembers them, and holds their memories close.
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