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A devastating river rescue incident in East Texas has left two teenagers dead and a father missing, shaking the community and leaving two families in grief.
Authorities say the tragedy began on the evening of Sunday, November 9, when two boys, ages 14 and 15, were kayaking on the Trinity River in Polk County. The water conditions were described as rough and “choppy,” and the kayak overturned, sending both teens into the river.
According to witnesses, a 53-year-old father—who was onshore—immediately rushed into the water after seeing his son and his son’s friend struggling. He managed to make it into the river, but responders say he never resurfaced.
Emergency crews, including multiple law enforcement and rescue agencies, were dispatched to the scene. The bodies of both teens were recovered later that evening. The search for the father continued until nightfall before being suspended for safety reasons, with recovery efforts resuming at 7 a.m. Monday.
As of the latest update, the father remains missing.
Officials have not yet released the names of the victims, pending family notifications.
Community Grief and Support
Residents in San Jacinto and Polk Counties say the loss has deeply affected many who knew the family and the teens. Community members described the father’s actions as selfless and heroic, emphasizing that he died trying to save his child.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” one neighbor said. “He did what any parent would do—he went in to save his son.”
The incident comes as authorities continue to warn about dangerous river conditions, especially during seasonal changes and high water levels.
Search Efforts Continue
Local, state, and volunteer rescue teams are expected to remain on the river as they search for the missing father. Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area to keep the waterway clear for recovery personnel.
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