Two Avant boys, ages 8 and 9, die after falling through ice in Osage County

Search and rescue ends in tragedy along Bird Creek near Avant

Two children died Saturday night after falling through ice on a creek in Osage County, authorities said. The boys were identified only as juveniles, and officials have not released their names.

Emergency responders were called to the area of Bird Creek near Avant on Saturday, Feb. 7, after a report that children had gone into the water through broken ice. Residents and first responders located the first victim near the creek bank shortly before 7:15 p.m. Life-saving measures were attempted but were unsuccessful, authorities said.

A large search then continued for a second child. Responders converged on a section of the creek where ice had broken, expanding operations across the area for several hours. The second victim was located and recovered at about 11:30 p.m., officials said.

What is known about the response

Officials described a multi-agency effort that included ground teams, aerial drones, a specialized rescue boat and dive teams. The extended operation reflects the hazards posed by ice conditions on moving water, where thickness can vary widely even within short distances and can be undermined by currents.

Authorities did not provide additional details about how the boys ended up on the ice, whether they were together at the time they fell through, or if an investigation is underway into the circumstances. No arrests or criminal allegations have been announced.

Why ice on creeks and ponds can be deceptive

Public safety officials across northeast Oklahoma routinely warn that frozen bodies of water can appear stable while remaining unsafe, particularly after recent freezes or temperature swings. Creeks and streams can be especially dangerous because current can thin ice from below, while brush and uneven banks complicate rescues.

Local government winter-safety advisories emphasize that residents should avoid walking or playing on frozen water and that parents should closely supervise children around ponds, lakes, streams and drainage areas during cold snaps.

Safety guidance emphasized by responders

Authorities urged residents to stay off frozen bodies of water as winter conditions persist. Safety reminders typically include keeping children away from iced-over water, using barriers or supervision near waterways, and calling 911 immediately if someone falls through ice rather than attempting a rescue that could put additional people at risk.

• Keep children away from frozen creeks, ponds and lakes, even when ice appears solid.
• If someone breaks through, call 911 and avoid entering the ice yourself.
• Seek safer, land-based ways to help while first responders are en route.

The deaths have reverberated through the small Osage County community, with first responders noting the particular difficulty of incidents involving children.

Authorities said condolences were being extended to the families and to the Avant community as it mourns the loss.