Full Breakdown
Tragic Drowning of Three Brothers in Bonham, Texas
1/29/2026, 12:16:22 AM
Incident Overview
On January 26, 2026, three brothers—Howard Doss, 6; Kaleb Doss, 8; and EJ Doss, 9—tragically drowned after falling through the ice of a frozen pond in Bonham, Texas. The incident occurred during a severe winter storm that affected much of the United States. The boys were playing outside near a friend's house when the youngest ventured onto the ice, prompting his older brothers to jump in to save him. Their mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, attempted to rescue them but was unable to do so.
Mother's Desperate Rescue Attempt
Cheyenne Hangaman described the harrowing moment when she was alerted by her daughter that her sons had fallen into the pond. Despite her warnings to stay away from the water, she rushed to the scene. "I tried to save them while also trying to keep myself alive," Hangaman recounted. Upon jumping into the freezing water, she quickly became incapacitated. "As soon as I jumped in, I locked up. I couldn’t do anything," she said.
First responders and a neighbor, identified as John Ramsey, the athletic director at Bonham ISD, assisted in the rescue efforts. They managed to pull the two older boys from the water, but both later died at the hospital. The youngest brother, Howard, did not resurface and was recovered after an extensive search.
Community Response and Mourning
The Bonham Independent School District expressed its devastation over the loss, stating, "We are devastated by this unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, and all who knew and loved these children." Counselors were made available to support students and staff affected by the tragedy.
In the wake of the incident, a GoFundMe campaign was established to assist the family with funeral expenses, raising over $60,000 within days. Hangaman hopes her experience serves as a warning to other parents about the dangers of icy conditions.
Personal Reflections
In her grief, Hangaman shared memories of her sons, highlighting their vibrant personalities. EJ aspired to be a football star, Kaleb was known for his joyful spirit, and Howard was described as goofy and fun-loving. "They were mean to each other, but once something happens, they’re right there for each other," she reflected, emphasizing the bond between her sons.
Ongoing Investigation
The Fannin County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation into the incident, although no charges have been announced. The community remains in mourning as they grapple with the loss of the three young boys amidst the broader context of Winter Storm Fern, which has claimed numerous lives across the country.
