6th grade student passes away, two others injured after Johnson County crash
Buncombe Side-by-Side Accident
It is with heavy hearts that we share devastating news from our Buncombe community. On Sunday afternoon, three children from Buncombe were involved in a tragic side-by-side accident. Sadly, one of those children lost their life, while the other two were treated for their injuries and have since been released to their families.
With permission from the family, we are deeply saddened to inform you that the young life lost was Brayden Ames, a 6th-grade student at Buncombe Grade School. Brayden's mother, Ambyer Ames, is our dedicated 5th/6th-grade teacher. We share in her and her husband Travis's loss and pray for them in these most difficult days ahead.
As a school and a community, we are profoundly shaken by this loss. We ask that you keep the Ames family, the two other students who are recovering, and our entire Buncombe, Cypress, Vienna, and Johnson County communities in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
Brayden was an active participant in our school's baseball, cross country, basketball, and track teams, representing the Buncombe/Cypress Cats. His infectious smile and positive attitude made him a friend to everyone, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Support will be available at school tomorrow for both students and staff. Social workers and clergy will be on hand to provide counseling and emotional care. Our school staff will also be available to offer any additional support to families. If you or your child need someone to talk to today, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly, and we will connect you with the appropriate resources.
School will be in session on Monday, and our primary focus will be on providing support to students, staff, and the community. We encourage students to attend, but we fully understand if your child is unable to be present during this time. Social workers and faith leaders will be available for anyone who wishes to speak with them.
As we remember Brayden, let us hold onto the joy and kindness he brought to so many. His memory will live on in the hearts of his friends, teachers, and the entire Buncombe community.
We are here for each other, and together, we will navigate through this loss.
Sincerely,
Jamie Kerley
Buncombe Consolidated School District #43
