While most Americans were celebrating Independence Day, country singer Pat Green was living a nightmare.
On July 4th, his younger brother John Burgess, sister-in-law Julia Anderson Burgess, and their two sons — Jack (5 years old) and James (1 year old) — were swept away by deadly floodwaters in Kerrville, Central Texas.
The family had been staying in a riverside RV park near the Guadalupe River, hoping to enjoy fireworks by the water. But torrential rains turned the festive night into a devastating tragedy.
Pat Green confirmed the heartbreaking news on July 6 via a somber post on social media, sharing a family photo with the caption:
“We lost four of the brightest lights in our lives on the day we were supposed to celebrate freedom. There’s no way to describe the hole they’ve left behind.”
Local authorities described the flood as one of the worst in decades. Rescue teams worked tirelessly, recovering the body of 5-year-old Jack nearly two miles downstream. The parents, John and Julia, were found later — trapped in debris. Baby James was missing for days before being confirmed deceased on July 10.
This tragic loss has shocked not only Texas but the entire country music community. Pat Green, known for his heartfelt songs like Wave on Wave, has received an outpouring of prayers and condolences from fans and fellow artists alike.
In perhaps the most painful moment, Pat posted a final image: a child’s shoe, caked in mud. No words. Just grief.