Dierks Bentley Performs Tribute To Granger Smith Following Death Of His 3-Year-Old Son River

Days after Granger Smith shared the devastating news that his 3-year-old son had died following a tragic accident, fellow country star Dierks Bentley dedicated part of his CMA Fest performance to him.

Before launching into song, Bentley took a minute during his Nashville event on Saturday to dedicate his hit song “I Hold On” to Smith and his family.

“He’s going through a tough time right now,” Bentley told the crowd.

Smith’s son, River Kelly Smith, died following “a tragic drowning at home,” according to a representative of the singer.

“I have to deliver unthinkable news,” the “Happens Like That” singer wrote alongside a photo of himself and the toddler on Instagram on Thursday. “We’ve lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith. Following a tragic accident, and despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived.”

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“Amber and I made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life,” he continued. “Our family is devastated and heartbroken, but we take solace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father. Riv was special. Everyone that met him knew that immediately. The joy he brought to our lives cannot be expressed and his light will be forever in our hearts. If there are words to say more, I cannot find them in this moment. Love the ones close to you. There has never been a more difficult moment for us than this.”

Smith’s wife, Amber Smith, also took to Instagram with a similar sentiment. “Nothing can prepare a mother to deliver this kind of news,” she captioned a picture along with her husband’s words.

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Following the heartbreaking news, the couple – who also have a 7-year-old daughter, London, and 5-year-old son, Lincoln – were flooded with condolences from the country music community.

Musicians including Jason Aldean, Maren Morris and Luke Bryan shared their heartache.

Kane Brown was also hurting for Smith, who he previously toured with, saying, “I told him already, ‘I just want you to know that I love you, man and anything at all you ever need, I’m here for you, brother and I love you, and I’m praying for y’all.”