Granger Smith’s Wife Reveals Singer’s Suicide Attempt After Son’s Tragic Drowning

Country artist Granger Smith’s wife, Amber Smith, is sharing harrowing new details about her husband’s mental health struggle. She describes a suicide attempt that occurred after the 2019 drowning death of their three-year-old son, River. The account is part of Amber’s forthcoming memoir, offering a raw look at their family’s grief.

According to People magazine, Amber recounts the night Granger nearly took his own life. The incident happened while he was on tour, overwhelmed by grief and guilt following the tragic accident.

A Night of Despair on Tour

Amber explains that Granger was in Boise, Idaho, after a performance. He had been drinking with friends, something he had avoided since River’s passing. Walking back to his tour bus alone, his thoughts turned dark.

Visions of the drowning accident overwhelmed him. He felt he was a failure as a father. In a moment of utter despair, Granger retrieved a gun from a bedside drawer.

Finding Hope in a Moment of Crisis

Amber writes that her husband aimed the weapon at himself. She expresses her heartbreak that he ever felt this was his only option. But in that critical moment, Granger cried out to God for help.

The distressing visions suddenly stopped. The gun slipped from his hand, and he collapsed to the floor. Granger has also written about this experience in his own memoir, “Like a River”.

The couple has been open about their journey through grief. They have focused on their faith and family, which includes their three other children. The birth of their son Maverick after River’s death became a special tribute.

They chose the name Maverick specifically to include a part of River’s name. This ensures the brothers are forever connected while allowing Maverick his own identity. The family continues to honor River’s memory in their daily lives.

The Smith family’s story highlights the profound impact of traumatic loss. Their openness about the Granger Smith suicide attempt provides a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support during grief.

Thought you’d like to know

How did River Smith die?

River Smith, the three-year-old son of Granger and Amber Smith, died in a drowning accident at the family’s home in 2019. The tragedy was a sudden and devastating loss.

What did Granger Smith do after River’s death?

Following his son’s death, Granger Smith continued his music career but struggled profoundly with grief. He has since stepped away from country music to become a minister.

How many children do Granger and Amber Smith have?

Granger and Amber Smith have four children. They are parents to London, Lincoln, and Maverick. Their son River passed away in 2019.

How did the Smiths honor River with their youngest son’s name?

They named their youngest son Maverick. They incorporated “Riv” from River’s name into it as a way to forever connect the two brothers.

Where was Granger Smith when the suicide attempt happened?

The attempt occurred on his tour bus in Boise, Idaho. He was alone after a show, grappling with intense grief and feelings of guilt.

Trusted Sources: People, Associated Press