Granger Smith’s Wife Shares Details of His Near-Suicide Attempt Following Son’s Drowning
Granger Smith’s Near-Suicide Attempt: A Heartbreaking Story of Loss and Survival
In 2019, country music star Granger Smith and his wife Amber faced an unimaginable tragedy when their 3-year-old son, River, drowned in the pool outside their Texas home. This devastating loss plunged the family into a dark period of grief and despair. Years later, Amber Smith courageously revealed the harrowing details of a near-suicide attempt by Granger that followed this heartbreaking event.
Granger, a beloved figure in country music, shared in his 2023 memoir *Like a River* that he reached one of his lowest points after losing River. Amber’s forthcoming memoir, *The Girl on the Bathroom Floor*, offers an intimate perspective on that painful night when Granger nearly ended his life. She recounts how he “put a cold Glock 9mm into his mouth,” a moment that underscores the depth of his anguish.
The Night of Despair: How Granger Smith Almost Lost Hope
Amber describes the night in Boise, Idaho, when Granger was out with friends after a show. It was the first time he had drunk heavily since River’s death. After sharing laughs and stories at a local bar, Granger found himself walking back alone, intoxicated and emotionally overwhelmed. Upon returning to his tour bus, he struggled to enter because he couldn’t remember the door code—a routine he had repeated countless times.
Inside the bus, Granger’s mind was flooded with painful memories of River’s final moments. Amber writes that he tried to ease the pain with a hit from a weed pen, but the torment only intensified. Visions of River facedown in the pool haunted him, accompanied by crushing feelings of failure and guilt as a father.
In a moment of utter despair, Granger reached for the gun he kept for protection on the road. Amber shares the gut-wrenching truth: “That night my sweet, incredible husband, the wonderful father of my kids, put a cold Glock 9mm into his mouth.” This revelation is a powerful reminder of the silent battles many face in the wake of trauma.
Faith and Redemption: How Granger Found a Way Back
Despite the overwhelming darkness, Amber reveals that Granger’s story did not end in tragedy. By what she describes as “the sheer grace of God,” Granger became aware that the voice urging him to pull the trigger was not his own. He recognized that he was in the midst of spiritual warfare.
In his moment of crisis, Granger cried out, “Jesus, save me! Save me, please, Jesus, save me!” This heartfelt plea marked a turning point. The visions ceased, the gun slipped from his hand, and he collapsed on the bathroom floor of the bus, overcome with tears and exhaustion.
The next morning, Granger texted Amber, admitting he had “an awful night” and had “come face to face with Satan.” However, he did not reveal the full extent of his struggle until years later. This journey through darkness to light led Granger to embrace his faith fully and eventually become a minister.
Life After Loss: Advocacy and Healing
Since River’s death and Granger’s near-suicide attempt, the Smith family has dedicated themselves to healing and advocacy. They welcomed their youngest son, Maverick, in August 2021, a symbol of hope and new beginnings.
In April 2024, Granger announced his retirement from country music, concluding his “Like A River” tour, named in honor of River. In interviews, he has spoken openly about how his faith saved his life and how his children, London and Lincoln, inspired him to keep fighting.
Together, Granger and Amber have become passionate advocates for children’s water safety, determined to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak.
Conclusion
Granger Smith’s near-suicide attempt following the tragic drowning of his son River is a poignant example of the profound impact grief can have on mental health. Yet, his story also highlights the power of faith, resilience, and support in overcoming despair. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or loss, remember that help is available. Reach out to loved ones, mental health professionals, or support organizations today—because no one has to face their darkest moments alone. For more inspiring stories and mental health resources, stay connected with us.
