Bonham, TX — A North Texas community is reeling after a devastating accident claimed the lives of three young brothers during a brutal winter storm. Six-year-old Howard, eight-year-old Kaleb, and nine-year-old E.J. Hangaman drowned Monday after falling through thin ice on a private pond off Recreational Road 3 in Fannin County.

Relatives told FOX4 that the boys were playing near the frozen pond when the ice suddenly gave way. First responders and a neighbor rushed to the scene, pulling the 8- and 9-year-olds from the frigid water and transporting them to a nearby hospital. Tragically, neither survived. Texas Game Wardens later recovered the youngest child after an extensive search.

Their mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, heroically attempted to save her sons but struggled to stay afloat in the freezing water herself. “I tried to save them while also trying to keep myself alive,” she said, her voice breaking. “I just couldn’t save them.” Her heartbreaking words reflect the unimaginable grief and trauma of losing three children in a single, sudden moment.

The community has quickly mobilized to support the family. Amber Kuhn of Point, Texas, organized a GoFundMe fundraiser to assist Cheyenne with funeral costs and immediate needs, which has already raised over $35,000 toward its $40,000 goal.

Multiple agencies responded to the tragedy, including the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office, Bonham Fire Department, and Texas Department of Public Safety. Bonham ISD described the loss as “unimaginable,” acknowledging the profound impact on the local community.