No Charges Filed In Drowning Death Of Danville High Schooler

DANVILLE, CA — No charges will be filed in connection with the drowning death of a San Ramon Valley High School freshman who was found in the school pool in May. A month after the tragic death, the Contra Costa County Coroner's Office determined 15-year-old Benjamin Curry’s cause of death to be asphyxia due to drowning and the manner of death was accidental.

Police said after completing their investigation, which was reviewed by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, they agree with the coroner’s findings and said the death was an accident. No criminal charges will be filed in the case.

"Detectives found no signs of foul play in the death, nor any criminal negligence," police said in a statement.

In June, a San Ramon Unified School District spokesperson said the district could not comment on an active police investigation and would "commence their own internal review" after the police department completes its investigation.

"As part of that process, we will be examining our policies and procedures in an ongoing effort to try to ensure the safety of our students," district spokesperson Elizabeth Graswich previously told Patch. "Our thoughts continue to be with the student's family and loved ones, as well as our students and staff."

The unresponsive teen was pulled from the water around 1:40 p.m. on May 8. School staff, law enforcement and fire officials attempted lifesaving measures and Ben was rushed to Kaiser Walnut Creek where he was pronounced dead, according to the Contra Costa County Coroner's Office. Police said Ben was participating in his regular physical education swimming class before the drowning.

The day after his death, a memorial at the school continued to grow and a candlelight vigil was held in his honor at the school's football field. A celebration of life was held for Ben at the Community Presbyterian Church Sanctuary in Danville on May 24.

Following Ben's death, the Curry family hired attorney Andy Schwartz, who has not been reached for comment.

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• Celebration of Life Planned For San Ramon Valley High Student
• Memorial Grows After Danville Student Drowns At School

Photo of Ben Curry courtesy Curry family via CPC