Tragedy on Lake Murray: 17-Year-Old Bryson Burns Dies in Boating Accident Near Saluda, SC
It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking details of a boating accident that claimed the life of Bryson L. Burns, a 17‑year‑old student from Lexington, South Carolina. The teen was found unresponsive in Lake Murray near Saluda County late on Monday, July 28, 2025, after his unattended johnboat was discovered adrift by local authorities.
🚨 Incident Summary
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Bryson Burns was reported missing when authorities discovered his small johnboat operating on Lake Murray without a person aboard, near Ramp 4 off River Bend Point .
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Dive teams with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources located his body at approximately 8:30 p.m. the same day using side‑scan sonar technology .
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The Saluda County Coroner’s Office, led by Angie Rita, confirmed Bryson’s identity and reported that he had apparently fallen into the water earlier that afternoon. He was the only occupant of the vessel .
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Investigations are now underway with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Child Fatality Unit, SCDNR, and the Coroner’s Office collaborating to understand how the accident occurred .
🌟 Remembering Bryson Burns
Bryson was a 17‑year‑old high school student from Lexington—known among family and friends for his kind heart, energy, and youthful enthusiasm. Though still early in life, Bryson’s presence touched many and left a lasting impression in his close‑knit community.
📅 Key Timeline
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Monday, July 28, 2025 |
| Location | Lake Murray near Ramp 4, River Bend Point, Saluda County, SC |
| Age & Residence | 17 years old, Lexington, SC |
| Boat Type | Small johnboat, single‑occupant |
| Discovery of Boat | Unoccupied and adrift |
| Recovery Time | Around 8:30 p.m. dig dive and sonar retrieval |
| Identified By | Saluda County Coroner’s Office (Angie Rita) |
| Ongoing Investigation | Involving SCDNR, SLED Child Fatality Unit, Coroner’s Office |
🧾 Public Safety & Investigation
Authorities emphasize that this tragedy remains under investigation to uncover any contributing factors—whether environmental, mechanical, or due to inattention or poor safety precautions. An autopsy is scheduled for later this week to determine precise cause of death.
Emergency personnel and community members are encouraged to report any relevant information or observations from that day to aid investigators.
💐 In Memory of a Young Life
While Bryson’s full life story is just beginning to surface, the suddenness of his passing brings deep loss to his family and community. Residents of Lexington, Saluda County, and beyond mourn a promising young life cut far too short. Words cannot fully express the grief felt by those who knew him.
As authorities continue their work, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bryson’s family, friends, and every person touched by his life. May his memory be a blessing.
🙏 Final Thoughts
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of how swiftly accidents on the water can claim lives—even those of strong, capable teens. Safety measures—including life jackets, proper supervision, and attentive boating practice—are essential in preventing such losses.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones of Bryson L. Burns as they navigate through their unimaginable grief.