Lake Murray, SC, August 3, 2025
News Summary
A 12-year-old boy named Jaysen Carr died from a brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba after swimming in Lake Murray. His symptoms began with headache and nausea, leading to severe complications. Despite being rare, Naegleria fowleri infections have a high fatality rate of about 95%. Local health authorities highlight the need for public awareness regarding the risks of swimming in warm freshwater bodies, especially in the absence of preventive measures and routine testing in South Carolina.
Columbia, South Carolina – Tragic Death of 12-Year-Old from Brain-Eating Amoeba
A 12-year-old boy named Jaysen Carr tragically died on July 18, 2025, from a brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba after swimming in Lake Murray, located 15 miles west of Columbia, SC.
Jaysen spent the Fourth of July holiday participating in various water activities with family and friends at the lake. Unbeknownst to his parents, the dangerous amoeba can thrive in warm freshwater bodies like Lake Murray.
Concern arose when Jaysen began to show symptoms that initially felt similar to a regular headache and nausea. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to significant disorientation and lethargy. After a week-long battle in the hospital, a doctor informed the family of the diagnosis with tears.
The Naegleria fowleri amoeba gains entry to the human body through the nose and travels to the brain, which results in a severe infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This illness has a notoriously high fatality rate; approximately 95% of infected individuals do not survive. Since the species was recognized, about 160 known deaths from this infection have been reported in the U.S. over the past 60 years.
In South Carolina, this incident follows a previous recorded death linked to the amoeba in 2016. Despite its presence, there are currently no laws in South Carolina mandating public reporting of cases related to Naegleria fowleri, leaving many residents unaware of the risks of swimming in local freshwater lakes.
Local health authorities have confirmed existing testing protocols do not include routine testing for Naegleria fowleri, as the pathogen presents sporadically, making it difficult to sample effectively. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines that identifiable symptoms of PAM include persistent headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, followed by severe neurological issues.
Despite having the potential for life-threatening infections, cases of Naegleria fowleri are exceedingly rare. Researchers remain perplexed by why infections are infrequent, given that the amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater environments across the globe.
As the Carr family grapples with their devastating loss, they have expressed a strong desire to raise public awareness on the dangers associated with swimming in freshwater bodies like Lake Murray. Their grief is exacerbated by the absence of any preventive measures posted around the lake regarding the risks of Naegleria fowleri.Â
Health experts recommend that individuals avoid warm freshwater activities to minimize risks and specifically advise swimmers to keep their heads above the water or use nasal plugs to prevent the amoeba from entering the body.
Summary of the Incident
- Victim: Jaysen Carr, 12 years old
- Date of Incident: July 4, 2025
- Location: Lake Murray, SC
- Cause: Infection by Naegleria fowleri.
- Symptoms: Headache, nausea, disorientation
- Fatality Rate: Approximately 95% of cases
- State Testing Status: No routine testing for Naegleria fowleri
- Previous Cases in SC: Last recorded in 2016
What You Need to Know About Naegleria fowleri
Infections of Naegleria fowleri are typically contracted through warm freshwater. Symptoms often mimic other illnesses, making early identification difficult. With the environment primarily being lakes, rivers, and hot springs, awareness is key to safe recreational water use. In South Carolina, the absence of preventive measures indicates a need for better education on the risks associated with freshwater swimming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Naegleria fowleri?
Naegleria fowleri is a brain-eating amoeba that can cause a rare but severe infection in humans if it enters the body through the nose. It typically thrives in warm freshwater environments.
How does one get infected with Naegleria fowleri?
Infection occurs when the amoeba enters the body through the nose while swimming or diving in warm freshwater environments.
What are the symptoms of the infection?
Early symptoms of Naegleria fowleri infection include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and subsequently severe neurological problems.
Is Naegleria fowleri infection common?
No, Naegleria fowleri infections are rare. Out of approximately 160 reported cases in the U.S. over the last 60 years, nearly 95% have resulted in death.
What precautions should be taken when swimming in freshwater?
Avoid keeping the head submerged in warm freshwater and consider using nose plugs to prevent water from entering the nasal passages.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Loss at Lake Murray: Child Dies from Naegleria fowleri Infection
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for South Carolina’s Midlands
Tragedy in Columbia as 12-Year-Old Dies from Brain-Eating Amoeba
Tragic Death of 12-Year-Old Brings Attention to Naegleria fowleri Risks
Family Advocates for Lake Safety After Tragic Loss
South Carolina Family Mourns Loss of Son from Brain-Eating Amoeba
Additional Resources
- KTLA News
- Wikipedia: Naegleria fowleri
- CBS News
- Google Search: Naegleria fowleri news
- AP News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Naegleria
- New York Times
- Google News: brain eating amoeba
- KOLD News
- People Magazine
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
