Tragedy strikes again: brothers vanish after surviving mass shooting

A heartbreaking turn of events

In a tragic twist of fate, two brothers from Northern California, Johnny Phommathep Jr., 17, and Jake Phommathep, 14, have vanished after a boating accident, just years after surviving a horrific mass shooting. The incident occurred over the weekend while they were crabbing with their father and friends in Bodega Bay. The family was celebrating the start of the recreational crab fishing season, a tradition that turned into a nightmare.

Their father, Johnny Sr., a veteran and dedicated family man, took his sons out on a 21-foot boat, which capsized unexpectedly. While the family was enjoying a day on the water, the boat was reported missing after it failed to return to the marina as scheduled. The sole survivor, an 11-year-old boy, managed to cling to a cooler and swim to safety, but the fate of the brothers remains uncertain.

A history of survival

This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the brothers’ past. Just seven years ago, they were victims of a mass shooting near Rancho Tehama Elementary School. Their mother, Tiffany Phommathep, shielded Johnny Jr. from the gunfire, sustaining multiple injuries herself. The shooting claimed five lives and left many others wounded, including the Phommathep family. The brothers had already faced unimaginable trauma, and now they are caught in another devastating situation.

Tiffany expressed her heartbreak, stating, “They’ve been through so much, both of my sons Johnny and Jake. Already one tragedy. They made that one, just to come out here.” The emotional toll on the family is immense, as they grapple with the possibility of losing their sons once again.

Community support and ongoing search efforts

The search for the missing brothers has been extensive, with the Coast Guard initially involved before the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office took over. As of Sunday evening, the search was called off, but efforts continue to comb the area for any signs of the boys. The community has rallied around the Phommathep family, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $31,000 to support them during this difficult time.

Johnny Sr. was not only a father of six but also the family’s primary provider. His dedication to his children and community was evident in his role as a volunteer firefighter. The loss of both brothers would be a devastating blow to the family, who have already endured so much. As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for a miracle, while also preparing to support the family in their time of need.