A heartbreaking incident unfolded on the Cuyahoga River in Ohio when a family’s day on the water turned deadly. A 5-year-old boy has died, and his father remains missing after their inflatable inner tube capsized in the river’s rapids. The tragedy occurred on the evening of June 22. Responders recovered the body of young Braxton Cross near the Portage Trail Bridge in Cuyahoga Falls.
Authorities say Braxton had been tubing with his father, Patrick Cross, when their inner tube overturned around 6:48 p.m. Cuyahoga Falls Fire Chief Chris Martin confirmed that multiple 911 calls were received regarding the capsized inner tube and missing individuals. Emergency crews quickly responded to the area, initiating a large-scale search and rescue operation.
According to a GoFundMe page set up to support the family, Patrick had been accompanied by his wife and their 3-year-old son on the same inner tube. While the mother and younger child were able to make it back to shore safely, Braxton and Patrick were swept into the water.
Despite the family’s desperate attempts to reunite, Braxton’s body was recovered later that evening. The search for Patrick has continued for several days, with rescue teams now shifting their focus to recovery efforts. In a public statement, Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters expressed the city’s condolences: “Our thoughts are with the family during this tragic time, according to WOIO.
The Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department, along with our county partners, remains committed to continuing search efforts throughout the day.” By the third day of the search, local officials confirmed that what began as a rescue operation had transitioned into a recovery mission.
The shift reflects the growing likelihood that Patrick Cross may not be found alive, though search efforts persist. Firefighter Daniel Pittman highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Cuyahoga River, noting that its depth can vary dramatically.
“That river is a living, breathing animal,” Pittman stated, describing the complex and sometimes dangerous conditions that search crews must navigate. Authorities continue to search the area with boats, drones, and sonar equipment, with updates expected as the investigation progresses.
As the community mourns the loss of young Braxton and hopes for the recovery of Patrick, local leaders have reminded residents of the river’s hazards and the importance of water safety during summer recreation.