Community Rallies as Three Young Brothers Drown in Frozen Pond

Mourning the Loss of Three Young Brothers

Tragedy struck a North Texas family as three young brothers drowned after falling through the ice of a frozen pond near Bonham. The boys, identified as 9-year-old EJ, 8-year-old Kaleb, and 6-year-old Howard Doss, were playing outside their home when the incident occurred on January 26, 2026. The community of Bonham is currently in mourning, providing support for the grieving family.

A Heartbreaking Incident

The devastating event unfolded when the boys, despite warnings, ventured onto the frozen surface of the pond. The youngest brother fell in first while attempting to ice skate, prompting his older siblings to jump in after him in an attempt to save him. Their mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, described the momentary horror when she realized they had fallen in, and despite her desperate attempts, she could not save them. "I tried to pick one up and put them on the ice," she recalled, but the ice kept breaking beneath their feet.

Community Support and Response

The response from local authorities was swift. First responders, including neighbors and the Bonham Fire Department, rushed to the scene to assist in the recovery efforts. While two of the boys were retrieved from the pond, they were later pronounced dead at the hospital. The youngest son, Howard, was found after an extensive search. The Fannin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that support from local agencies—including the Fannin County Emergency Management and Texas Game Wardens—played a crucial role in handling the tragedy.

Educational Institutions Rally Behind the Community

In the wake of this tragedy, Bonham Independent School District (ISD) expressed overwhelming sorrow for the family, stating, "It is with profound sadness that we inform our community of the tragic passing of three elementary students." They announced that grief counselors would be available for both students and staff, emphasizing the importance of community support during such painful times. The district acknowledged how deeply this loss impacts not just the immediate family but also the broader community.

Lessons on Vigilance

As the family prepares for the funeral, Cheyenne Hangaman shared a poignant message for fellow parents: vigilance is vital. "Make sure that you hold your kids tight. Always tell them that you love them," she implored, hoping that her experience can help raise awareness among other families about the potential dangers of frozen bodies of water.

The Role of Good Samaritans

John Ramsey, the athletic director for Bonham ISD, played a heroic role by rushing to help after hearing cries for aid. Without hesitation, he assisted in the rescue efforts. He later stated that the focus should remain on supporting the grieving family during this unimaginable loss. The sacrifice and quick thinking of individuals like Ramsey highlight the strength of community bonds during crises.

A Call for Support

The loss of the Doss brothers has understandably shaken the community of Bonham and surrounding areas. As they navigate this painful chapter, the outpouring of prayers and support is crucial. Local initiatives, including a GoFundMe campaign created to assist with funeral expenses, have begun, urging community members to contribute in any way possible.

As we reflect on this tragic accident, the Doss family remains in our thoughts. Communities that come together in times of need, providing love and support, embody the resilience needed to overcome deep grief.