BONHAM, Texas - Three young brothers died Monday after falling through ice on a private pond just outside Bonham, according to authorities.
On January 26, multiple local and state agencies responded to an emergency call on Rec Road No. 3 involving three brothers, ages 6, 8, and 9, who had fallen into an icy pond while playing near their home. A family acquaintance said five children were in the back of their property when the youngest child slipped on the ice and fell into the water. One brother jumped in to try to rescue him but was unable to get out due to the ice and steep slope. The third brother then attempted to help and also fell into the pond.
The Mom heard the children screaming and tried to reach them but was unable due to the ice.
According to authorities, the two older boys were pulled from the water by a neighbor and first responders and were given emergency medical care before being transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The youngest child did not resurface and was later recovered following an extensive search of the pond. All three children were pronounced dead.
The boys Mom, Cheyenne Hangaman, released the names of the victims to media. The brothers were 6-year-old Howard, 8-year-old Kaleb and 9-year-old Edward known as "EJ".
The Fannin County Sheriff's Office and Texas Game Wardens thanked the Bonham Fire Department, Bonham Police Department, Lamar County emergency responders, Fannin County Emergency Management, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and community members who assisted during the response.
Officials expressed condolences to the family and said the incident has deeply affected the community.
On Monday, January 27, Bonham Independent School District notified parents and staff of the tragedy in a letter from Superintendent Dr. Lance Hamlin, confirming the deaths of the three elementary students and expressing condolences to the family.
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we inform our community of the tragic passing of three elementary students,” Hamlin wrote. “We are devastated by this unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all who knew and loved these children.”
The district asked the community to respect the family’s privacy during their time of mourning and said it is committed to supporting those affected. Counselors have been made available for students and staff in response to the loss.
The deaths have deeply impacted the close-knit Bonham community, with district leaders emphasizing compassion, care, and mutual support as the community grieves.
A go fund me account has been setup to help the family with memorial costs.
