A Hero Remembered: 10-Year-Old Treven Pitts Dies After Saving Younger Brother From Drowning in Monroe County, Mississippi

MONROE COUNTY, MS – What began as a carefree spring afternoon turned into an unimaginable tragedy on Sunday, when 10-year-old Treven Pitts of Monroe County died after heroically rescuing his younger brother from drowning in a local creek. As the community grieves the loss of a young boy whose final act was one of extraordinary bravery, they are also rallying together to honor his selflessness and legacy.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred on Sunday, April 27, 2025, near a creek in the Athens community, a rural area just outside of Amory. Treven and his 6-year-old brother had been playing near the water while visiting family when the younger child lost his footing and was swept into the fast-moving current following recent heavy rains.

Eyewitnesses say Treven acted without hesitation. Though he was not a strong swimmer himself, he immediately jumped into the creek to save his brother. Despite the strong currents, Treven managed to push his sibling to the edge of the water where an adult relative was able to pull the younger boy to safety. Tragically, Treven was pulled under moments later and did not resurface.

Emergency responders from Monroe County Fire and Rescue and local volunteer teams arrived quickly and began a search and recovery operation. After an hour-long effort, divers recovered Treven’s body downstream. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Monroe County Coroner confirmed that the cause of death was accidental drowning.

Sheriff Kevin Crook addressed the media on Monday, visibly emotional as he praised Treven’s actions. “This young boy showed more courage in his final moments than many do in a lifetime. Treven gave his life to save his brother, and that makes him a hero — not just to his family, but to our entire county.”

News of Treven’s death has left the Monroe County community heartbroken. Tributes have poured in from neighbors, classmates, teachers, and local leaders, all describing him as a bright, kind-hearted boy with a love for animals, video games, and his family. He was a fourth-grade student at Hatley Elementary School, where grief counselors have been made available to support students and staff.

“He always had a smile on his face,” said Mrs. Linda Carson, one of Treven’s teachers. “He was the kind of student every teacher hopes to have—respectful, funny, and always helping others. What he did for his brother is exactly who he was.”

A vigil is planned for Friday evening at Hatley Park, where the community will gather to light candles, share stories, and celebrate Treven’s life. His family has also created a memorial fund to assist with funeral expenses and to establish a scholarship in his name for students who demonstrate courage and kindness.

In a statement released by the Pitts family, Treven’s mother, Latasha Pitts, wrote:

“Treven was our protector, even as a little boy. He didn’t think twice about jumping in to save his brother. That was who he was—brave, loving, and selfless. We’re broken without him, but we know he’s with God, watching over us. We will honor him every day.”

Community leaders, including Monroe County Board of Supervisors and members of local law enforcement, are also working on a resolution to formally recognize Treven’s heroic act. A memorial plaque is being considered for installation near the site of the incident.

As Monroe County grapples with the loss of one of its youngest heroes, residents are reminded not only of the dangers of natural water bodies but also of the strength and courage that can come from the most unexpected places. In his short life, Treven Pitts made an impact that will never be forgotten.

If you wish to donate to the Treven Pitts Memorial Fund or participate in the upcoming vigil, please visit the official Monroe County community page or contact Hatley Elementary School for details.