Toddler Sisters Drown in Backyard Pool After Sneaking Outside

Authorities identify the victims as 2-year-old Kelsey Kite and 3-year-old Kinsley Kite

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Authorities in Texas have shared the identities of the two young girls who drowned in their backyard pool after sneaking outside while their mother and grandfather were asleep. The toddler girls, 2-year-old Kelsey Kite and 3-year-old Kinsley Kite, were pronounced dead after they were found in the swimming pool at their home in Katy, Texas.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of pool safety and supervision, especially for young children. It serves as a reminder for parents and pool owners to take necessary precautions to prevent such accidents, including installing barriers around pools and keeping doors locked.

The details

According to the Harris County Sheriff's Office, the two girls may have snuck out through the patio door leading to the backyard while their mother and grandfather were asleep and their grandmother was at the grocery store. The girls' grandmother came home and found them in the pool, and multiple people, including the grandmother and neighbors, called 911, but the toddlers were pronounced dead at the hospital.

  • On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the incident occurred.
  • On Friday, February 13, 2026, the Harris County Institute of Forensic Science identified the victims as 2-year-old Kelsey Kite and 3-year-old Kinsley Kite.

The players

Kelsey Kite

A 2-year-old girl who drowned in the backyard pool of her home in Katy, Texas.

Kinsley Kite

A 3-year-old girl who drowned in the backyard pool of her home in Katy, Texas.

Harris County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and shared the identities of the victims.

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What they’re saying

“This is a very sad, unfortunate circumstance.”

— Major Ben Katrib, Leader of the Harris County Criminal Investigations Bureau (KPRC)

“There's no law in place, per se, requiring you to have a lock or a fence around the pool, but it's always recommended because you just never know. It could happen very quickly.”

— Major Ben Katrib, Leader of the Harris County Criminal Investigations Bureau (KPRC)

What’s next

Authorities are now stressing parents to take precautions when it comes to children and outdoor swimming pools, such as putting a barrier around the edge of the pool and keeping doors leading to the pool locked at all times. Officials also advise parents to be familiar with CPR and basic water rescue skills.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pool safety and supervision, especially for young children. It highlights the need for parents and pool owners to take proactive measures to prevent such accidents, as they can happen quickly and with devastating consequences.