A tragic incident has unfolded in Maine, where a 12-year-old boy lost his life after being run over by a school bus. The victim, identified as Brayden Callahan, a student at Oceanside Middle School, was fatally injured at the intersection of Eliza Steele Drive and Broadway in Rockland around 2:20 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21. According to reports from the Rockland Police Department, Callahan had just exited the bus and was crossing the street when the accident occurred.
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The police investigation revealed that the bus driver, 65-year-old Jeffrey Colburn, had diverted his attention away from the road at the time of the collision. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital and later airlifted to Maine Medical Center, Callahan succumbed to his injuries. The heart-wrenching news has left his family devastated, with Callahan’s grandmother expressing disbelief, likening the situation to a “bad nightmare.”
Colburn, who had a prior conviction for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol in 2015, has been placed on administrative leave following the tragic incident. Despite legal restrictions in Maine prohibiting individuals with such convictions from driving school buses for at least a decade, concerns have been raised about Colburn’s continued involvement in bus operations within the district.
The superintendent, John McDonald, announced the cancellation of classes for a mourning period, emphasizing the impact on students and the community at large. The RSU 13 school district assured additional support and counselling services for those affected, underscoring the paramount importance of student safety and well-being.
As the community grapples with the profound loss, a memorial now marks the spot where the fatal accident occurred, serving as a poignant reminder of the young life cut short. Callahan’s grandmother expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, highlighting the importance of unity during such trying times. She reflected on her grandson as a “sweet, sweet little boy,” underscoring the devastating reality faced by families dealing with such tragedies.
Amid ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident, authorities have called for thoughts and prayers for Callahan’s family. The RSU 13 school district continues to cooperate with law enforcement, seeking to understand the events leading to the untimely death of the young student, as the community mourns the loss of a promising life.
While the details of the case unfold, the tragic loss of Brayden Callahan serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and stringent regulations governing school bus operations. The shared grief and tributes pouring in underscore the profound impact of such incidents on families, schools, and communities, as they navigate the aftermath of an irreplaceable loss.