Tragedy at Wendtwoods Park: The Woodlands Mourns the Sudden Loss of Ronnie Singleton III, 19
THE WOODLANDS, TX — A serene evening turned tragic at Wendtwoods Park on Sunday, June 29, 2025, when 19-year-old Ronnie Singleton III lost his life in a heartbreaking accident that has left his family and the entire community devastated. What began as a simple attempt to retrieve a basketball ended in unthinkable sorrow, as Ronnie tragically drowned in a nearby pond.
The incident unfolded just after sunset, according to authorities, when Ronnie entered the water to retrieve the ball that had rolled into the pond’s edge. Witnesses said he slipped beneath the surface and never resurfaced. Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene, and despite valiant rescue efforts, Ronnie was pronounced dead after being pulled from the water.
A recent high school graduate and a young man known for his warm spirit, sense of humor, and unwavering love for family and friends, Ronnie Singleton III had his whole life ahead of him. The Singleton family now faces an unimaginable loss, grieving a son, brother, and friend taken far too soon.
“Ronnie was full of life. He lit up every room with his laugh, and he had the biggest heart,” shared a close friend through tears. “He didn’t deserve this. None of us were ready to lose him.”
The community of The Woodlands has rallied in support, bringing flowers, candles, and hand-written notes to Wendtwoods Park in a makeshift memorial. Social media is flooded with tributes — photos, memories, and words of love — all honoring the life of a young man whose kindness knew no limits.
“This is a devastating loss for all of us,” said Pastor James Ellis, who spoke at a candlelight vigil Monday evening. “Ronnie’s life reminds us that every moment is precious. We must love harder, hold each other tighter, and never take a single breath for granted.”
Officials have since urged the public to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies, no matter how shallow they appear. Wendtwoods Park remains open to the public, though many visited the site in silence, reflecting on the tragedy.
Ronnie’s family has announced that funeral arrangements will be made public in the coming days. In honor of Ronnie’s love for basketball and community outreach, a scholarship fund is being considered in his name — a lasting tribute to a life that, while brief, deeply impacted those around him.
As tears fall and hearts ache, one thing is certain: Ronnie Singleton III will never be forgotten. His memory, his laughter, and his loving spirit will forever ripple through The Woodlands — like the pond that claimed him, still and forever changed.
Rest in peace, Ronnie. You were loved more than you’ll ever know.
