A Mother's Unimaginable Loss in Texas
In a heart-wrenching incident that has shocked the community of Bonham, Texas, a mother has spoken out about the tragic deaths of her three young sons. The boys drowned on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, after falling through the ice on a frozen pond. Cheyenne Hangaman, the children's mother, recounted the harrowing moments to The Associated Press, describing the scene with devastating clarity.
The Tragic Incident Unfolds
"They were just screaming," Hangaman said, her voice filled with anguish as she recalled the sounds of her children in distress. Despite her desperate efforts, she was unable to reach them in time to prevent the unthinkable. The pond, located in the rural area of Bonham, approximately 80 miles northeast of Dallas, had frozen over during a recent cold snap, creating a deceptive and deadly surface.
Emergency responders were called to the scene, but the boys were pronounced dead after being pulled from the icy water. The identities and ages of the children have not been officially released, pending notification of extended family. Local authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway, though initial reports suggest this was a tragic accident.
Community and Official Response
The tragedy has sent ripples of grief through Bonham, a small city in Fannin County with a population of just over 10,000. Neighbors and community members have begun to gather in support of the grieving family, with many leaving flowers and notes near the pond. "It's every parent's worst nightmare," said one local resident, who asked not to be named. "We're all just heartbroken for her."
Officials from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department have reiterated seasonal warnings about the dangers of thin ice, especially on ponds and lakes that may appear solid but lack consistent freezing. "Ice thickness can vary dramatically, even in the same body of water," a spokesperson noted. "It is never safe to assume ice is stable enough to walk on, particularly in regions like Texas where freezing conditions are less common."
Broader Safety Implications
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden perils that can accompany winter weather, even in areas not typically associated with severe cold. While northern regions of Canada are well-versed in ice safety protocols, similar tragedies can occur anywhere temperatures drop below freezing.
Safety experts recommend the following precautions to prevent such accidents:
- Avoid walking on frozen ponds, lakes, or rivers unless the ice has been officially declared safe by local authorities.
- Educate children about the dangers of thin ice and supervise them closely near any frozen water bodies.
- If someone falls through ice, call emergency services immediately and do not attempt a rescue alone, as you may also fall through.
- Use reaching or throwing aids from shore if possible, rather than venturing onto the ice.
As the community mourns, Cheyenne Hangaman's courage in speaking out may help raise awareness and prevent future tragedies. Her story underscores the fragile line between a playful winter moment and irreversible loss.
