Full Breakdown
Tragic Drownings of Twin Boys in North Carolina
2/12/2026, 11:09:02 AM
Incident Overview
On February 6, 2026, in Onslow County, North Carolina, twin seven-year-old boys, Benjamin and Sebastian Pufall, drowned after falling through the ice of a pond behind their home. Their mother, Barbara Zarlinga, was cooking dinner when she called for them to come inside. After receiving no response, she searched the neighborhood and returned to the pond, where she discovered Sebastian in the water. Despite her efforts to rescue him and perform lifesaving measures, both boys were pronounced dead later that evening at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune.
Family and Community Response
The tragic incident has left the family devastated. Zarlinga was treated for hypothermia after her rescue attempt. She expressed gratitude towards the first responders, particularly a woman who assisted her and prayed for her during the ordeal. The boys' grandmother, Denise Morrison, shared her sorrow, stating, “I hope nobody ever has to holler their children’s name and not get a response.” The twins were well-loved in their community and attended Richlands Elementary School, where they had many friends.
In response to the family's loss, a GoFundMe page was established to assist with funeral expenses, raising over $25,000 as of February 10. Friends and community members have rallied to support Zarlinga during this difficult time.
Broader Context and Warnings
This incident is part of a concerning trend, as just weeks prior, three brothers aged 6, 8, and 9 drowned in a similar accident in Texas during a winter storm. Their mother, Cheyenne Hangaman, urged parents to be vigilant about the dangers posed by icy conditions. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about the risks associated with frozen ponds, emphasizing that there is no reliable data on ice thickness in many areas.
Official Statements
The National Weather Service has highlighted the "REAL and DEADLY danger of icy ponds and waterways," advising against activities near such bodies of water during winter conditions.
Criticism & Opposition
While the community has shown overwhelming support for the Zarlinga family, there are calls for increased awareness and preventive measures regarding safety around frozen water bodies. Critics argue that more should be done to educate families about the dangers posed by icy conditions, especially in regions where such incidents are becoming more frequent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I saw Sebastian in the water. I didn’t know it was him at the time. I was praying to God it was a toy,” — Barbara Zarlinga, Mother
- “I hope nobody ever has to holler their children’s name and not get a response,” — Denise Morrison, Grandmother
The tragic drownings of Benjamin and Sebastian Pufall serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by icy conditions and the importance of community support in times of grief.
