Three brothers die after falling into icy pond in North Texas

Three brothers died after falling into a frozen pond in Fannin County near Bonham, Texas, during a winter storm, authorities said.

The children, ages 6, 8 and 9, were all elementary school students. The Bonham Fire Department said this was the second fatal incident involving children in the area this week.

The 8- and 9-year-old boys were rushed to a hospital after being rescued by responders but later died. The youngest child was found after an extensive search of the pond.

In an interview with FOX 4, the children’s mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, said the youngest boy fell in first and the older brothers jumped in to try to help.

“I started running toward the pond and I jumped in. I tried to save them while also trying to keep myself alive,” Hangaman said.

“As soon as I jumped in, I locked up. I couldn’t do anything,” she added.

The Bonham Independent School District issued a letter expressing sympathy to the family.

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we inform our community of the tragic passing of three elementary students,” the letter said. “We are devastated by this unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all who knew and loved these children.”