Country music star Granger Smith's 3-year-old son dies in tragic drowning accident at home

Smith, who was supposed to appear at a concert in Kansas City on Thursday, took to social media along with his wife Amber to reveal the devastating news.
UPDATED JUN 7, 2019

Country singer and songwriter Granger Smith on Thursday announced that his 3-year-old son River Kelly Smith recently died in a “tragic accident.”

Smith was supposed to appear at a concert in Kansas City on Thursday took to social media along with his wife to reveal the devastating news. The couple also revealed that they will be donating River's organs so that other children will have a second chance to live.  

While the couple hasn't revealed the tragic circumstances that led to the child's untimely death, People says that a representative for the singer has confirmed that River died of drowning. 

Smith also revealed that despite doctors efforts, they weren't able to revive River. Taking to Facebook, Granger shared the news via a post saying, "I have to deliver unthinkable news. We’ve lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith. 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." 

Continuing Granger added, "Our family is devastated and heartbroken, but we take solace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father. 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 Smith (L) and Amber Bartlett attend the 53rd Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 15, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada (Getty Images)

His wife Amber also took to Instagram to share the devastating news saying nothing can prepare a mother to deliver such news. 

The couple also asked people to send donations to Dell Children’s Medical Center in River’s name in lieu of flowers and gifts. "In lieu of flowers or gifts, please send donations to Dell Children’s Medical Center in River’s name. The doctors, nurses and staff have been incredible." 

Smith is known for songs “If The Boot Fits,” ”Backroad Song” and “Happens Like That.” He and his wife, Amber, also have another son and a daughter.

Many celebrities have sent their condolences to the Smith family, including Kane Brown, Maren Morris, Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean and more. Morgan Miller, who endured the tragic loss of a child to drowning last year said: “My heart breaks. Another baby gone too soon.”

On June 10, it will be a year since Morgan and her Olympic skier husband Bode Miller lost their little girl.

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