What happened to Jaysen Carr? 12-year-old who died of brain-eating amoeba identified

By Admin

26 Jul, 2025

The community of Columbia, South Carolina, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 12-year-old Jaysen Carr, whose life was tragically cut short after he contracted a rare and deadly brain-eating amoeba. Jaysen, a beloved student at Hand Middle School, passed away on July 18 following exposure to Naegleria fowleri after swimming in Lake Murray.

A Devastating Loss for the Carr Family

According to reports from local station WW10, Jaysen was exposed to the microscopic organism while swimming in Lake Murray, a popular recreational spot near Columbia. The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed the case during the week of July 7. Although Naegleria fowleri is naturally found in warm freshwater bodies such as lakes and rivers, human infections are extremely rare.

In a heartfelt statement issued by their attorney, Tyler Bailey, the Carr family expressed their deep grief over the "unthinkable" loss of their cherished son. They described Jaysen as a loving brother and a true friend to many. The family also extended gratitude to the staff at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Midland for their efforts in treating Jaysen during his final days.

Understanding Naegleria fowleri

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies Naegleria fowleri as a free-living amoeba that causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but almost always fatal brain infection. The infection typically occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose. Between 1962 and 2024, only four people in the United States have survived out of 167 reported cases.

Despite its deadliness, health experts emphasize that the amoeba causes infections in only a tiny number of cases each year about 10 annually across the United States. Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina State Epidemiologist, assured the public that this tragic case does not constitute a public health emergency. She reiterated that recreational water activities remain generally safe when appropriate precautions are taken.

Community Rallies Around the Carr Family

In the wake of this tragedy, the Columbia community has shown tremendous support. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help the Carr family cope with unexpected medical and funeral expenses. As of publication, the fundraiser had garnered nearly $36,000 out of its $55,000 goal. The campaign’s message underscores the community’s desire to ease the burden on the grieving family during this unimaginably difficult time.

FAQs

Q: What happened to Jaysen Carr?
A: Jaysen Carr, a 12-year-old boy from South Carolina, died after contracting the rare brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri, likely during a swim in Lake Murray.

Q: What is Naegleria fowleri?
A: It is a microscopic amoeba found in warm freshwater that can enter the body through the nose, causing a deadly brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

Q: Is this a public health emergency?
A: No. Experts say such infections are extremely rare and that lakes and rivers remain safe for recreation when precautions are taken.

Q: How can people reduce the risk of infection?
A: Avoid getting water up your nose in warm freshwater environments. Using nose clips and avoiding stirring up sediment in shallow areas can also help minimize risk.