Nationwide — Johnny Collins III, a 28-year-old African American man from Macon, Georgia, died attempting to avoid wasting his two stepdaughters from drowning within the Ocmulgee River at Amerson River Park. His household now remembers him as a hero.
On Tuesday night time, Collins was at Amerson River Park together with his household when 10-year-old Skyler Worthen and 7-year-old Summer time McRae have been swept into deeper water by robust currents. Collins jumped in to rescue them, however all three drowned
Rescue groups searched the river for hours because the household stayed shut, hoping for a miracle. Their our bodies have been recovered later that night time.
“I by no means would have thought {that a} river can be the explanation my brother is now not right here,” Collin’s sister, Samantha Taylor, advised 11 Alive.
His brother, Kenshaw Adkins, continues to be struggling to course of the loss. He described Johnny as a well known native DJ and a faithful father.
“He was a loving father to 4 kids and a loving father determine to Summer time and Skyler, embracing them as his personal,” Adkins stated. “I knew my brother may deal with himself on the market in that water. It’s simply, and I didn’t have a look at it, like he mainly gave his life to avoid wasting two ladies, and it says quite a bit about him.”
The household stated they’ll proceed honoring Collins’ life and legacy. They need him to be remembered for his bravery, coronary heart, and love for his kids.
They’re additionally asking native officers to enhance security measures on the park. Since 2020, at the very least 11 folks have drowned at Amerson River Park.
The Bibb County Sheriff’s Workplace stated the park will reopen on Thursday.
