Klein ISD sixth-grader dead after falling into Cypress Creek
Klein ISD sixth-grader dies after falling into Cypress Creek
Braydin Barlow-Buirse was identified as the 11-year-old who was found dead after falling into a Spring creek. FOX 26's Jonathan Mejia spoke to the boy's football coach and a fire captain who was a part of the search at the creek.
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - The 11-year-old who died after falling into Cypress Creek in Spring on Thursday has been identified as a sixth-grader from Klein Independent School District.
Strack Intermediate identified the young boy as Braydin Barlow-Buirse.
PREVIOUS STORY: Harris County search: 11-year-old falls into creek, child's body located by rescuers
Strack Intermediate makes statement
What they're saying:
The school principal, Robert Gilbert, gave this statement:
Dear Strack Intermediate Families,
It is with deep sorrow that I share the heartbreaking news that one of our students, 6th grader Braydin Barlow-Buirse, has passed away following a tragic incident that occurred last night near Cypress Creek.
This loss has deeply impacted our school family, and we are grieving alongside the student’s loved ones. We extend our most sincere condolences to the family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Today, members of the Klein ISD Crisis Response Team will be on campus to provide support and counseling for students and staff. If your child needs someone to talk to, please encourage them to speak with a counselor or any trusted adult on campus.
We are committed to walking through this grief together as a school community. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we are not releasing additional details at this time. Should the family choose to share more in the days ahead, we will honor their wishes and provide opportunities to support them.
Resources for families on how to talk with children about loss can be found at kleinisd.net/keepkleinsafe and kleinisd.net/tragedy. Please don’t hesitate to contact the school at (832) 249-5400 if your child needs additional support.
Thank you for your compassion, your partnership, and the many ways you continue to care for one another.
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11-year-old's body recovered from Cypress Creek
The backstory:
Harris County Precinct 4 initially reported they were conducting a search for an 11-year-old who fell into Cypress Creek Thursday night.
After searching the area, rescue teams located the child and he was confirmed dead.
Spring Fire Department assists in search
Spring officials share water safety tips following 11-year-old's drowning
A Klein ISD student has died after he allegedly fell into Cypress Creek. FOX 26's Jonathan Mejia spoke to a Spring fire official for advice on how to keep kids safe in large bodies of water.
"Much of the water was very low. There were points we had to walk the boat over ankle and shin deep water. There was a lot of obstructions, of course. It is a creek. So, there were trees, branches, and moving parts below us," Captain Michael Alaniz, with the Spring Fire Department, said.
Alaniz told FOX 26 the water level varied at the creek, with water levels being as deep as 15 feet and that impacted search efforts.
"With more still water, you have a better opportunity to see what’s going on. If it’s a current moving water, then a lot can go on underneath the surface of the water due to flow. So with the still conditions, it was a lot safer," Alaniz said.
Braydin Barlow-Buirse
What we know:
Braydin is described as a child who loved crayfish, chicken pineapple pizza, and football.
"Braydin was one of the most kind-hearted young man I had the pleasure of being around on the regular basis. He put everyone first. He was selfless," Cody Conner, Braydin's football coach, said.
Braydin's favorite NFL team were the New Orleans Saints and he would travel to Texas A&M football came with his coach Conner.
‘We love him’
"That we love him. He’s an awesome kid. He’s been an impactful part of this community. We would do anything to spend one more minute with him," Conner said.
Eleven-year-old Braydin was a member of the All-American Youth Football and Drill Team.
The group made a statement on their Facebook, saying, in part:
"It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Braydin Barlow a beloved teammate, friend, and rising star in the Rams football community.
Braydin was more than just a talented athlete — he was a source of inspiration, leadership, and joy both on and off the field. His dedication, passion, and spirit touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know him."
What you can do:
Loved ones of Barlow's family have set up a GoFundMe to support the family.
Click here for more information.
Spring Fire Department provides safety tips
"Make sure they have a safety vest or flotation device. It is always good to have younger children exposed to water early and learn how to swim," Alaniz said. "Remain calm, stay calm, get close to an edge … remain calm and get close to the edge as best as you can,"
Stay calm
"Try to stay awake, stay conscious, continue to keep breathing. Control your breathing. I understand it’s easier said than done," Alaniz.
The Source: Information from this article was provided by Harris County Precinct 4 Constable's Office and Strack Intermediate. FOX 26's Jonathan Mejia spoke with coach Cody Conner and Spring Fire Captain Michael Alaniz.