St. Charles, AR — Tragic Boating Accident on the White River Claims Lives of Two Brothers, Aldean and Mason Hargrove
St. Charles, Arkansas – A quiet Saturday afternoon turned into a harrowing tragedy for the small town of St. Charles and surrounding communities when a devastating boating accident on the White River claimed the lives of two young men. Authorities confirmed that 26-year-old Aldean Hargrove and his younger brother, 23-year-old Mason Hargrove, lost their lives following the collision, which has left their family and the entire region reeling with grief.
The tragic incident occurred on June 22, 2025, in a stretch of the White River commonly frequented by recreational boaters and fishermen. According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and local emergency responders, a distress call was received late Saturday afternoon regarding a serious boating crash involving multiple individuals. Despite the prompt arrival of first responders, both Aldean and Mason were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
A Beloved Pair, Taken Too Soon
The loss of Aldean and Mason Hargrove has cast a deep shadow over the town of St. Charles. Known throughout the community for their close bond, generous spirits, and deep ties to family and faith, the Hargrove brothers were described by many as the kind of people who left a lasting impression wherever they went.
Aldean Hargrove, the elder of the two, was a dedicated outdoorsman with a strong work ethic and a kind heart. Friends recall his warm smile, his unwavering loyalty, and his willingness to help anyone in need. A former high school athlete and an avid angler, Aldean often spent his weekends on the water or volunteering in his local church community. He worked in the agricultural sector, a trade passed down through generations, and was seen as a young man deeply rooted in the land and values of rural Arkansas.
Mason Hargrove, just 23 years old, was equally cherished. He was known for his adventurous spirit, infectious laugh, and an uncanny ability to lift others up even in the darkest moments. A recent college graduate, Mason had returned to his hometown to be close to family while planning the next chapter of his life. Friends describe him as a young man full of promise, ambition, and kindness—someone who had so much life ahead of him.
The Accident and Ongoing Investigation
The exact circumstances of the accident remain under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that the boat the brothers were operating may have struck a submerged object or encountered engine failure before capsizing. Witnesses nearby reported hearing a loud crash and seeing the vessel in distress before rushing to render aid.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, local sheriff’s deputies, and medical personnel, responded swiftly. Tragically, despite their efforts, the brothers could not be revived.
The Arkansas State Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct further examinations, and authorities have indicated that a full report, including toxicology and mechanical evaluations of the boat, will be made public once the investigation concludes.
A Community in Mourning
News of the tragic loss has devastated the small but tight-knit community of St. Charles. Local churches held candlelight vigils on Sunday evening, drawing hundreds of mourners, many of whom grew up with the Hargrove brothers or knew them through school, sports, or work.
Family friends and community leaders have described the incident as “unthinkable” and “a cruel twist of fate.” Pastor Samuel Grant of the St. Charles Baptist Church, where the Hargroves were longtime members, said during a vigil, “We lost two of our brightest stars. Their legacy will live on in every person they touched.”
In a heartfelt statement released by the Hargrove family, they expressed their profound sorrow:
“Our hearts are shattered beyond measure. Aldean and Mason were more than brothers—they were best friends, kind souls, and the heartbeat of our family. We ask for prayers and privacy as we navigate this unimaginable pain.”
Outpouring of Support
In the wake of this tragedy, support for the Hargrove family has poured in from across Arkansas and beyond. A memorial fund has been established to help with funeral expenses and support the family during this difficult time. Local businesses have set up donation boxes, and an online GoFundMe campaign has already garnered significant support from friends, relatives, and strangers moved by the heartbreaking story.
Classmates, coworkers, and neighbors have taken to social media to share stories of Aldean and Mason—stories of small acts of kindness, shared laughter, and lives well lived, though far too short.
Remembering Two Lives That Mattered
As funeral arrangements are made and the community continues to grieve, one message remains clear: Aldean and Mason Hargrove were deeply loved. Their loss is not only a personal tragedy for their family but a communal one that has reminded many of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear.
The White River, long a symbol of tranquility and natural beauty for the people of St. Charles, will forever bear the memory of the two brothers whose lives were so tragically cut short upon its waters.
Rest in peace, Aldean and Mason. You will never be forgotten.
