Fire Engulfs Home in Wichita Falls, Texas: One-Year-Old Grayson Colt Bolejack Dies in Blaze

Fire Engulfs Home in Wichita Falls, Texas: One-Year-Old Grayson Colt Bolejack Dies in Blaze

On October 23, 2024, tragedy struck a family in Wichita Falls, Texas, when a fire engulfed their home, resulting in the heartbreaking death of 1-year-old Grayson Colt Bolejack. Grayson, affectionately known as "JR," was just weeks away from celebrating his second birthday on Christmas. His passing has left his family and community in mourning.

Grayson was the son of 23-year-old Clyde Bolejack, a respected rope horse futurity trainer, and his partner, Sierra Branson. Their lives, which revolved around Grayson and their shared passions, were shattered in an instant. On social media, Branson expressed the depth of her grief, describing her son as a joyful and lively child who adored cows, loved to make people laugh, and had a passion for singing. "To know Grayson Colt was to love him," she wrote, capturing the essence of a boy whose spirit brought light to those around him. "He was so intelligent, loving, and most of all my whole world."

Branson's heartfelt message reflects the immense pain and shock felt by the family. "I will never get the image of my whole world burning to nothing right in front of me out of my head," she lamented. "My baby boy… my home… every single thing… all gone." Her words resonate with a sense of disbelief and desperation as she grapples with an unimaginable loss. Branson also expressed her fear of grief, noting, "I’ve never lost a family member, I’ve never dealt with a loss of any type. All I ask is prayers for my family." 

The fire, whose cause is currently under investigation, swept through the family’s residence just days after the conclusion of the American Rope Horse Futurity Association World Championship, an event that holds significant importance in the community of rope horse enthusiasts. This unfortunate timing adds to the tragedy, as it underscores the fragility of life and the unpredictability of loss.

In the wake of this devastating event, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Bolejack family, who have lost everything in the fire. The fundraiser aims to provide immediate financial support as they navigate the aftermath of this catastrophe. Donations can be made directly through the GoFundMe platform, which outlines the family’s needs during this difficult time.

In addition to online contributions, the family is accepting donations at their temporary address, located at 1200 Adell Circle in Weatherford, Texas. Specific clothing sizes have been provided for those wishing to contribute directly. Sierra wears small shirts, size 00/1 x 36 pants, and size 8 shoes, while Clyde wears large shirts, 31×36 jeans, and size 10.5 shoes. For those wishing to make direct contributions, Clyde’s personal Venmo account is @Clyde-Bolejack.

As the community rallies around the Bolejack family, they have requested privacy to process their profound grief. The overwhelming support from friends, family, and even strangers serves as a testament to the impact Grayson had in his short life. It also highlights the collective empathy that emerges in the face of such tragedy.

In times like these, the emotional toll of loss can feel insurmountable. The Bolejack family’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of community support and compassion during life's darkest moments. While the future may seem uncertain for Clyde and Sierra, the love and remembrance of their son will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew him.

As the investigation into the fire continues, the hope is that answers will bring some solace to a family grappling with an unimaginable loss. Until then, the community stands united in their support, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy.