Bonham was exposed to music at a young age and seemed destined to become a drummer. He banged on pots and pans before he ever had a drum set. He heard plenty of jazz records growing up, but Bonham was mesmerized by one rock song that influenced his drumming.

"We are devastated by this unimaginable loss, and ourthoughts are with the family, friends, and all who knew and loved these children," Bonham Independent School District said in a letter to families.

BONHAM, Texas — The tight-knit community of Bonham wrapped its arms around a grieving family Friday as friends, family and loved ones gathered for a balloon release in memory of three young brothers whose lives ended in a tragic accident earlier this week.

Every member of Led Zeppelin brought immense talent to the band. That includes drummer John Bonham. He grew up listening to jazz, studied with big-band drummers, and was so mesmerized by one early rock ‘n’ roll song he loved into his drumming technique.

Bonham ISD Athletic Director John Ramsey said he was helping a neighbor in a moment of crisis, "doing what I hope anyone would do for someone in need."

The Bonham community is mourning the loss of three young brothers who died Monday after falling into a freezing pond. Authorities said the three brothers, identified by relatives as 6-year-old Howard, 8-year-old Kaleb, and 9-year-old EJ, fell through the ice on a private pond off Rec Road #3 outside Bonham.

Bonham Elementary is celebrating its 40th anniversary with the unveiling of a sheep sculpture designed by Ashley Perales on January 30, 2026.

Three brothers — ages 6, 8 and 9 — died Monday after falling through an icy pond across the street from a house where they were staying near Bonham, authorities said Tuesday. Their mother said she jumped into the freezing water but couldn’t save them.