Heartbreaking Ending at Toledo Bend: Body of Missing Angler Peyton Hughes Recovered

SABINE COUNTY, Texas – What began as a hopeful search for a missing college angler has ended in unimaginable heartbreak. Authorities confirmed this morning that the body of 21-year-old Peyton Hughes was recovered from Toledo Bend Reservoir.

Hughes, a Campbellsville University student from Kentucky, vanished on September 24 while preparing for a Bassmaster Kayak Series tournament. His kayak was discovered earlier in the week, sparking an intensive, around-the-clock effort by agencies in both Texas and Louisiana, joined by volunteers determined to bring him home.

This morning, Peyton’s mother shared the devastating words no parent ever wants to say: “Oh no, my baby is gone. They recovered his body this morning in the lake. Please pray for us. My sweet boy is gone to be with his Daddy who died fighting for this country. I love you, Peyton Hughes & Adam! Oh gosh, I’m hurting so bad!”

The United Cajun Navy, which assisted in the search, also confirmed the recovery: “The body of Peyton was recovered early this morning. Peyton is gone to be in Heaven with his dad, who died fighting for our country. Thanks to everyone who assisted in the search.”

For Peyton’s family, the grief is doubled by the memory of his father, Adam, a U.S. veteran who gave his life in service to this nation. Now father and son are reunited in Heaven, leaving behind a community shattered by loss.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Sabine County Sheriff’s Office, Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, Pendleton Harbor Volunteer Fire Department, and dedicated dive teams worked together throughout the week in hopes of finding Peyton.

As word spreads, prayers and tributes are pouring in from Texas, Louisiana, and Kentucky, where Peyton’s friends, teammates, and fellow anglers are mourning a young man remembered for his faith, his love of the water, and his bright future.

Tonight, as lights dim across Toledo Bend, one family’s world has gone dark. Peyton’s mother asks that we hold them close in prayer as they walk through this valley of grief.