by | Published
A search operation in Calhoun County ended in tragedy after a father and young child were found dead following a late-night fishing trip.
On March 18, 2026, Texas Game Wardens were notified of an overdue family last known to be fishing at Hog Bayou.
Earlier that morning, maintenance crews with the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority discovered two children, ages 4 and 6, alone at a boat ramp. The children told authorities that during the night, their 4-year-old sibling entered the water.
Their father, 28, immediately jumped in to try to rescue the child. Neither resurfaced.
A large-scale search effort was launched involving Texas Game Wardens, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and multiple partner agencies.
DPS deployed a fixed-wing aircraft equipped with thermal technology, while the Texas General Land Office provided drone support. Ground crews searched the shoreline and surrounding areas.
Around 1 p.m., the father’s body was located and recovered. At approximately 2:30 p.m., game wardens located the child, who was also recovered.
Additional agencies assisting in the search included the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Division of Emergency Management, and Hunter Hadley’s Quest.
Officials also credited GBRA crews for caring for the two surviving children until help arrived.
Authorities say support services will continue to be provided to the family.
