Tragedy on the Cuyahoga River: 5-Year-Old Braxton Cross Dead, Father Patrick Still Missing After Tubing Accident in Ohio
CUYAHOGA FALLS, OHIO — A family’s summer outing turned into an unimaginable tragedy after an inflatable raft carrying a father and son overturned in the swift-moving waters of the Cuyahoga River on Sunday, near the Sheraton Hotel on Front Street in downtown Cuyahoga Falls. The accident has claimed the life of 5-year-old Braxton Cross and sparked an ongoing search for his father, 30-year-old Patrick Cross, who remains missing.
According to officials, the father and son had been enjoying a tubing trip on the river—a popular activity in the area—when their inflatable raft encountered treacherous conditions near a low-head dam adjacent to the Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls. Witnesses reported seeing the raft struggle against powerful currents before capsizing in the turbulent waters.
Emergency services were dispatched around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday following multiple 911 calls from bystanders who witnessed the incident. Responders from the Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department, Summit County Dive Team, and local law enforcement agencies arrived on scene and quickly began rescue operations.
Tragically, Braxton was recovered from the water and rushed to Akron Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Despite extensive efforts by medical personnel, he was later pronounced dead. His passing has sent shockwaves through the community, with neighbors, family friends, and school staff describing him as a joyful and curious little boy who loved the outdoors and spending time with his father.
Patrick Cross, Braxton’s father, has not been seen since the raft overturned. Rescue crews have scoured the river using boats, drones, sonar equipment, and dive teams, focusing on the stretch of river between the Sheraton hotel and areas downstream. Search efforts have continued into the early hours and resumed at first light, as rescuers race against time and river conditions to locate the missing man.
Authorities say the section of the river where the accident occurred is known to be particularly hazardous. Recent rainfall had elevated water levels and increased current speeds, making the river deceptively dangerous for recreational floaters.
“This is a deeply heartbreaking incident,” said Cuyahoga Falls Fire Chief Chris Martin. “The river may appear calm in places, but there are hidden dangers—strong undercurrents, submerged debris, and low-head dams that can create deadly hydraulic traps. We urge everyone to respect the river and always wear proper safety gear.”
Neither Patrick nor Braxton were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident, according to preliminary reports. Investigators are working to confirm how far the raft traveled before it flipped and whether any other factors may have contributed to the capsizing.
The Cross family, who reside in Akron, had reportedly spent the afternoon tubing with friends before breaking off on their own just prior to the incident. Family members say Patrick was a devoted single father who cherished every moment with his son.
“He was his world,” said a family spokesperson through tears. “Patrick did everything for Braxton. They were inseparable—just two best friends navigating life together. This is a nightmare we can’t wake up from.”
In the wake of the tragedy, local residents have left flowers, teddy bears, and heartfelt notes near the riverbank and on the Sheraton footbridge overlooking the scene. A vigil is being planned in Braxton’s memory, and community members are rallying around the Cross family with donations and messages of support.
As the search for Patrick continues, authorities urge anyone with relevant information, photos, or video footage from the river on Sunday to contact the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department. Officials also remind the public that river conditions can change rapidly and that inflatable rafts, while popular, offer little protection in emergencies.
Public Safety Reminder:
Water safety experts stress the importance of using U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, checking weather and river conditions before entering, and avoiding areas with signs warning of low-head dams or high currents. The Cuyahoga River, while scenic and historic, demands caution—particularly in urban stretches where man-made structures alter the flow of water.
As of Monday evening, Patrick Cross remains missing, and the search is classified as an active recovery effort. Rescue crews plan to continue operations throughout the coming days, weather permitting.
This tragic accident has left an indelible mark on the community of Cuyahoga Falls and serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly a joyful outing can turn into a heartbreaking disaster. Braxton Cross’s young life was cut far too short, and as the community mourns, hopes remain that Patrick will soon be found and brought home to his loved ones.
Anyone with information or who may have seen the pair prior to the incident is asked to contact the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department at (330) 928-2181.