What was meant to be a family vacation in Pensacola turned into heartbreak for the loved ones of 16-year-old Bryce Brooks of Atlanta.
While spending time at the beach, Bryce and his friends noticed four younger children struggling in a dangerous rip current. Without hesitation, Bryce and two others dove into the water to help, while others ran to get adults.
A Hero’s Sacrifice
Bryce’s father, Shivy Brooks, recalled that his son never called for help for himself — only for the children he was trying to rescue. In the chaos of the waves, Bryce was pulled under. A close family friend, Charles “Uncle Chuck” Johnson II, jumped in to try and save him, but he too was overtaken by the current.
Both were pulled from the ocean and rushed to the hospital, but despite all efforts, they did not survive.
A Community Grieves
At Maynard Jackson High School, classmates honored Bryce with a balloon release, describing him as kindhearted, talented, and full of potential. His mother, Crystal Brooks, said through tears that in his final moments, Bryce “stepped into manhood,” sacrificing himself for others.
Bryce had been an honor roll student, passionate about music, active in his school’s fashion club, and a devoted older brother. The Brooks family had even been featured on Netflix’s Instant Dream Home, where their house was secretly renovated.
Carrying His Legacy Forward
In the wake of his passing, support for the family poured in. Education initiative Get Your Teach On raised over $78,000, praising Bryce’s courage and acknowledging that his actions saved lives.
To honor him, the Brooks family created the Bryce Brooks Foundation, focusing on drowning prevention and water safety. The foundation provides free swimming lessons and scholarships for lifeguard certification, giving young people tools to protect themselves and others.
Recently, six scholarships were awarded through the foundation — one of them to Uncle Chuck’s son — ensuring that Bryce’s spirit of selflessness continues to guide others.
A Life That Still Inspires
Though his life was tragically cut short, Bryce’s bravery continues to touch lives far beyond the beach that day. His story stands as both a warning about the dangers of rip currents and a testament to the power of courage and compassion.
As his family says, Bryce didn’t leave this world as just a teenager. He left it as a hero.
