Country singer Granger Smith's son, 3, dies in 'tragic accident'

By Lucia Binding, news reporter

Country singer Granger Smith has announced his youngest son, River Kelly Smith, has died following a “tragic accident”.

A representative for the American star said the three-year-old drowned in the family’s backyard swimming pool, US media reported.

Smith, 39, shared the “unthinkable news” on Twitter and Instagram, saying his son was unable to be revived despite doctors’ best efforts.

He said he and his wife Amber “made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life”.

Smith continued: “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.”

He added the family was devastated and heartbroken, but took solace that River was with God, and asked that donations be made to Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas.

The singer, who is also father to son Lincoln Monarch, five, and daughter London, seven, shared a picture of himself embracing a smiling River Kelly.

His wife Amber also shared a similarly-written post with a picture of herself holding River, beginning the message with: “Nothing can prepare a mother to deliver this kind of news.”

Smith, who was signed to a contract at the age of 19 in Nashville and has released nine studio albums, is understood to have cancelled his show for Thursday night.

Many figures in the music industry paid tribute to the family following the announcement, including country singer Kane Brown, who wrote: “I’m here for you if you need anything at all bro just hit me up”.

Another country singer, Luke Bryan, posted in the comments: “Many prayers. So sorry”, while fellow country star Maren Morris added: “I am so, so sorry. Thinking of you and your family at this time”.