In Loving Memory of Mason Caballero
The Ogden community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 16-year-old Mason Caballero, a bright and beloved student whose life was tragically cut short after a shooting near Ben Lomond High School on Tuesday afternoon. What began as an ordinary school day ended in unimaginable sorrow, as friends, teachers, and family members now grieve a young life filled with promise and potential.
According to the Ogden Police Department, the incident occurred around 2:45 p.m. near 5th Street and Gramercy Avenue, only minutes after students had been dismissed for the day at 2:35 p.m. Mason, who had been shot, managed to stumble onto the Ben Lomond High School campus seeking help. Despite his injuries, his determination to reach safety spoke to his courage and strength even in his final moments.
Upon seeing Mason, the school’s resource officer and staff members immediately sprang into action, providing lifesaving first aid while calling for emergency medical assistance. Paramedics quickly arrived and transported Mason to a nearby hospital, where—despite the best efforts of doctors and medical personnel—he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
Authorities have confirmed that the shooting occurred off school grounds, and there was no active threat to the campus. Still, the gravity of the situation led nearby schools to briefly enter lockdown or “secure” status as a precaution while police assessed the area. Within the hour, officers confirmed the area was safe, and students were dismissed under careful supervision.
In a statement released by Ben Lomond High School Principal Velden Wardle, the school expressed its deep sorrow over Mason’s death:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that the student has passed away as a result of their injuries. Our hearts are with Mason’s family, friends, and all who are grieving this devastating loss. We mourn together as a school community.”
The Ogden School District emphasized that this tragedy was not connected to any prior safety incidents and that law enforcement had verified there was no ongoing danger to students or staff. All after-school activities were canceled for the day as a sign of respect and mourning.
Grief counselors and mental health professionals have been made available on campus throughout the week to support students, teachers, and staff as they process the loss. School administrators encouraged anyone struggling with grief to reach out and seek help, reminding students that they are not alone in their pain.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of now, no suspect information or motive has been released, and investigators are urging anyone with details to come forward to assist in the ongoing case.
For those who knew Mason, words fall short of capturing the magnitude of this loss. Friends describe him as a kind-hearted, funny, and genuine young man who brought light to those around him. Teachers remember him as respectful, hardworking, and full of potential—a student who had dreams for his future and a heart full of compassion for others.
Across Ogden, candlelight vigils and social media tributes have begun to appear, filled with messages of love, disbelief, and remembrance. Mason’s name is being spoken with reverence and tenderness as classmates and community members unite to honor his memory.
“He was more than a student—he was a friend, a son, a brother, and a beautiful soul,” one classmate shared. “It’s hard to believe he’s gone. We’ll carry him with us always.”
As the investigation continues, the focus of the community remains on healing, supporting one another, and keeping Mason’s memory alive. His passing is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion, connection, and care within our communities.
May Mason Caballero be remembered not for the way his life ended, but for the kindness, energy, and warmth he brought to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in the love that surrounds them during this time of profound sorrow.
