16-Year-Old Isaias Emanuel Carranza Named in Fatal Shooting Near Ben Lomond High School
Authorities have identified 16-year-old Isaias Emanuel Carranza as the primary suspect in the fatal shooting of a student near Ben Lomond High School earlier this week, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through the Ogden community and left students, parents, and residents reeling with grief and fear.
According to the Ogden Police Department, the shooting occurred near the high school campus earlier this week during what investigators believe was a confrontation involving multiple juveniles. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a young male student suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts by first responders and medical personnel, the victim succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital.
In an update released by police on Thursday, officials publicly identified Isaias Emanuel Carranza, 16, as the suspect in the shooting. Authorities emphasized that Carranza is not yet in custody, and efforts are currently underway to locate and apprehend him. Police are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward, warning that he may be armed and should be considered dangerous.
“We are asking for the community’s assistance in helping us bring this young man into custody safely,” said Ogden Police Chief Eric Young during a Thursday afternoon press briefing. “This tragedy has deeply affected our city, and our top priority is ensuring the safety of our residents and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.”
Community Shock and Grief
The shooting has cast a somber mood over Ben Lomond High School and the surrounding community. Grief counselors have been made available to students and staff as they process the loss of one of their own. Parents have expressed heartbreak and concern over the rising tide of youth violence in the area, urging for greater attention to mental health, conflict resolution, and safety in schools.
“It’s devastating,” said Maria Lopez, a parent of a sophomore at Ben Lomond. “Our children should be focused on their education and their dreams, not worrying about violence happening so close to home. My heart breaks for the victim’s family.”
Several students gathered outside the school Thursday afternoon to honor their fallen classmate, leaving flowers, notes, and candles at a makeshift memorial near the site of the shooting. Tears flowed freely as classmates embraced and mourned the loss of a friend described as “kind,” “funny,” and “full of potential.”
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting. While officials have not disclosed whether the incident was gang-related or the result of a personal dispute, they confirmed that both the suspect and the victim were teenagers familiar with one another.
The Weber County Attorney’s Office is collaborating with the Ogden Police Department in the ongoing investigation. If apprehended, Carranza could face serious felony charges, including murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, though prosecutors have not yet specified whether he will be charged as an adult.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Carranza’s location to contact Ogden Police Dispatch or submit tips anonymously through Weber Area Crime Stoppers.
A Community Plea for Change
As police continue their search, local leaders and community advocates are calling for unity and proactive measures to address youth violence. “We can’t continue to lose young lives like this,” said Councilwoman Angela Chacon, speaking at a community vigil. “Every shooting leaves behind families shattered, dreams stolen, and communities scarred. We need to do better for our youth.”
Ben Lomond High School Principal James Alverson also issued a heartfelt statement, offering condolences to the victim’s family and reaffirming the school’s commitment to safety. “This tragedy reminds us all how precious life is,” Alverson said. “We will honor our student’s memory by standing together, supporting one another, and promoting peace in our community.”
As of Friday morning, Isaias Emanuel Carranza remains at large. Law enforcement agencies continue their coordinated efforts to locate him and bring closure to a grieving community still trying to make sense of this senseless act of violence.
Anyone with information about Carranza’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Ogden Police Department at (801) 395-8221 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
