In Loving Memory of Three Precious Sisters

In  Loving Memory of Three Precious Sisters

With hearts that still ache decades later, we remember three young sisters whose lives were taken far too soon on March 23, 1998. Just 2, 3, and 7 years old at the time of their deaths, these little girls were robbed of the chance to grow, to dream, and to live the full and beautiful lives that lay ahead of them. Though many years have passed, the sorrow surrounding their loss remains profound and enduring.

In 1998, their mother, Megan Hogg, pleaded no contest to three counts of first-degree murder in connection with their deaths. Prosecutors stated that the children were smothered after their mouths and feet were taped, alleging the acts were committed in anger. Hogg was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.

On February 20, 2026, the Board of Parole Hearings found 53-year-old Megan Hogg suitable for release during a hearing held at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla. The decision marks the second time she has been found suitable for parole.

This was Hogg’s fifth parole hearing in less than eight years. In 2018, she was initially found suitable for parole, but that decision was reversed by then-Governor Jerry Brown following opposition from family members and the district attorney’s office. She was later denied parole in hearings held in 2019, 2021, and 2023.

Ten family members attended the 2026 parole hearing. Seven of Hogg’s immediate family members expressed support for her release. Three members of the children’s father’s family were also present—two opposing her release and one deferring to the board’s judgment.

On February 23, 2026, the district attorney’s office publicly stated it “continues to strongly oppose Megan Hogg’s release on parole.” The case now moves to Governor Gavin Newsom for review, as California law grants the governor authority to affirm, reverse, or modify parole decisions in murder cases.

Yet beyond the legal proceedings, the headlines, and the hearings, the focus remains where it has always belonged: on three innocent children whose lives were tragically taken. They were daughters, granddaughters, and beloved members of their family. They had laughter that once filled rooms, tiny hands that reached for comfort, and futures filled with possibilities that will never be realized.

Their memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved them—family members who have carried unimaginable grief for nearly three decades. Birthdays that should have marked milestones instead serve as painful reminders of what was lost. Holidays come with empty chairs. Time may pass, but love does not fade, and neither does remembrance.

As discussions about parole unfold, many continue to center their thoughts on the enduring impact of this tragedy. The loss of a child is a wound that never fully heals. The loss of three sisters at once is a sorrow beyond measure.

Today, we honor their memory—not as part of a court case or a parole decision—but as cherished young lives. We remember their innocence. We remember the joy they brought to those around them. And we hold space for the family members who continue to grieve and advocate in their names.

May their memory remain a testament to the preciousness of life. May they never be forgotten.