Ice skating on a frozen pond or lake can be extremely dangerous.
3 Brothers, All Under 10, Die in Tragic Accident on Frozen Pond Near Bonham
Three young brothers tragically lost their lives after falling through ice on a frozen pond near Bonham, Texas, according to a report from News4SanAntonio.¹
The Fannin County Sheriff’s Office reported that the boys—ages 6, 8, and 9—fell through the ice while on a pond located off a private road near Rec Road #3.
Multiple local and state agencies responded to the scene. A nearby resident reportedly assisted first responders in pulling two of the boys from the water. They were treated at the scene and rushed to the hospital, where they later died from their injuries.
The youngest child was recovered after an extended search of the icy water.
Officials have not released details about exactly how or when the accident occurred. Bonham Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Lance Hamlin shared the heartbreaking news with families in a letter on Monday. The investigation remains ongoing.
Did You Know?
In 2023, 1,024 people across the United States died from hypothermia or excessive cold, with the highest number occurring in January, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.²
Hypothermia Injuries and Frozen Pond Accidents in Texas
Frozen ponds and lakes can appear deceptively safe, especially during rare cold snaps in Texas. But ice-related accidents are extremely dangerous, and cold water exposure can become life-threatening in minutes—particularly for children.
Understanding why frozen ponds are unsafe and how hypothermia occurs can help families recognize the risks and prevent future tragedies.
Why Frozen Ponds Are Especially Dangerous in Texas
Texas does not experience the long, sustained freezes seen in colder climates. As a result, ice that forms on ponds, lakes, or creeks is often thin, uneven, and unpredictable, even if it appears solid on the surface.
Frozen ponds are dangerous because:
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Ice thickness can vary widely across the same body of water
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Warmer temperatures weaken ice from below
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Moving or flowing water prevents proper freezing
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Snow, debris, or vegetation can hide weak spots
In many cases, ice can give way without warning—even after only a few steps.
How Hypothermia Happens After Falling Through Ice
When someone falls into icy water, the body loses heat extremely quickly. Cold shock can trigger an involuntary gasp, panic, and rapid loss of muscle control within seconds.
Hypothermia can progress rapidly and may cause:
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Loss of strength and coordination
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Confusion and disorientation
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Irregular heart rhythms
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Loss of consciousness
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Death
Children are particularly vulnerable because they lose body heat faster than adults and are often not able to keep themselves afloat or escape on their own.
Ice-Related Accidents Involving Children
Children may not fully understand how dangerous frozen water can be, especially when it resembles safe winter play seen in other parts of the country. What looks like harmless fun can turn tragic in moments.
It’s important to note that these accidents can happen quickly and unexpectedly, and the details surrounding supervision or circumstances are not always known. What matters most is understanding that frozen ponds are never safe for skating or play in Texas, regardless of appearance.
When Legal Questions May Arise After an Ice Accident
Not every tragic accident involves legal fault. However, in some situations, families may have questions about whether unsafe conditions contributed to the loss.
Depending on the facts, considerations may include:
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Whether the pond was located on private property
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Whether the hazard was known or foreseeable
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Whether warnings, barriers, or protections were in place
These cases are highly fact-specific, and investigations often take time. Exploring legal options does not mean assigning blame—it simply allows families to understand their rights during an incredibly difficult time.
What Families Should Know About Winter Ice Safety
Because prevention is the only real protection against ice-related tragedies, families should keep these safety principles in mind during cold weather:
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Avoid ponds, lakes, creeks, or drainage areas that appear frozen
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Do not assume ice is safe based on appearance or others being nearby
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Stick to designated ice rinks only
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Teach children to stay away from frozen water
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Call emergency services immediately if someone falls through the ice
Lost a Child or Loved One in an Ice-Related Accident? Call Shaw.
Losing a child or loved one in a sudden ice-related accident is devastating beyond words. Families are often left grieving while also facing overwhelming questions and unexpected expenses. If your family was affected by a tragic ice or hypothermia-related accident, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Funeral and burial expenses,
- Pain and suffering,
- Ongoing emotional distress,
- Loss of companionship and support,
- And more.
We’ll help you find out for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to speak with an experienced Texas injury lawyer. There are no fees, no obligations, and no pressure—just clear, compassionate legal guidance when you need it most.
We look forward to serving you.