Two Juveniles Tragically Drown After Falling Through Frozen Pond

The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office is devastated to report the tragic loss of two children following a water-related incident on Sunday. 

Around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2026, deputies responded to Mayberry Lane after receiving a 911 call regarding two 7-year-old juveniles who had fallen into a frozen pond.  Deputies, along with officers from the Richlands Police Department, firefighters from Hargett’s Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department and Back Swamp Volunteer Fire Department, and Onslow County Emergency Service responded to the scene.  

A family member was able to remove one of the juveniles from the water prior to the arrival of first responders. The second juvenile was quickly located and removed from the water by responding emergency personnel. 

Life-saving measures were immediately initiated, and the children were transported to Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune. Despite the extensive efforts of first responders and medical staff, both juveniles tragically succumbed to their injuries. 

The incident has been ruled an accident.  

“This is a heartbreaking day for our community,” said Sheriff Chris Thomas. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they face an unimaginable loss. We are also keeping our deputies, first responders, and everyone involved in this response in our thoughts, as incidents like this affect all of us deeply.” 

The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office asks the community to keep the family in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.