The Bonham community is mourning the loss of three young brothers who died Monday after falling into a freezing pond.
Authorities said the three brothers, identified by relatives as 6-year-old Howard, 8-year-old Kaleb, and 9-year-old EJ, fell through the ice on a private pond off Rec Road #3 outside Bonham.
“The 8 and 9-year-old were pulled from the water by first arriving responders and a neighbor. Medical care was immediately administered before being transported to a local hospital. The 6-year-old did not resurface but was later recovered after an extensive search of the pond. All three children were pronounced deceased,” said authorities.
According to FOX 4, the boys’ mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, said the youngest child, Howard, went underwater first, prompting his two older brothers to jump in to try to save him.
“I started running toward the pond and I jumped in. I tried to save them while also trying to keep myself alive,” Hangaman told FOX 4. “As soon as I jumped in, I locked up. I couldn’t do anything.”
Hangaman said the boys were staying with a friend and fell into a pond located on private property.
After she jumped in to try to save her sons, Bonham ISD Athletic Director and Head Football Coach John Ramsey heard her screaming and rushed to help.
Hangaman said she eventually had to be pulled from the freezing water with a rope and credits Coach Ramsey with saving her life.
A GoFundMe has been created to help the family lay the brothers to rest – click here
Bonham ISD sent a letter to parents Monday expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
“We are devastated by this unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all who knew and loved these children.”
Counseling and support services are being made available to students and staff as the close-knit community mourns together.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all affected by this tragic incident,” said officials. “The Fannin County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Game Wardens appreciate the quick response and assistance of Bonham Fire Department, Bonham Police Department, Lamar County emergency responders, Fannin County Emergency Management, the Texas Department of Public Safety and members of the community that stepped up to assist in this difficult time.”
