Candlelight Vigil Planned For 'True Warrior' Ben, 10, Who Died After Falling Into Branford River Friday

BRANFORD, CT — The Branford community and beyond is mourning the tragic death of Ben Callahan, 10, who died after falling into the Branford River Friday afternoon after playing with his brothers. Ben fell into the water and was swept away by the current. He was found dead inside a pipe.

A candlelight vigil is planned for 7:30 p.m. Sunday night in Branford on the Green. Emergency responders spent three hours searching for Ben on Friday afternoon before they found his body around 4 p.m. Already, mourners have placed flowers near the river and a football as Ben had a true passion for the sport.

For those who knew Ben best they say he touched numerous lives in his life through countless acts of kindness.

Eric Fiengo, President Branford Football, released an emotional statement on Saturday concerning Ben and the legacy he leaves behind, calling him a "true warrior." Ben would also take the time to help anyone in need, Fiengo said.

"Dear Branford Hornet Family and Community. We are deeply saddened to announce that on Friday we have lost a wonderful child in our community.

Ben Callahan just 10 years-old was an outstanding athlete and he excelled in just about anything he did. He had a love and a passion for football, basketball and lacrosse, he pushed himself to the max in each sport and would often wear his heart on his sleeve like a " true warrior"as he is often called.

Ben also excelled in the classroom and was talented in so many ways. He loved instruments, music, cooking for his family and he enjoyed helping his dad multi task at work.

Ben should be labeled as a humanitarian. He would spend time helping anyone that needed help, whether it be a neighbor, family member, friend or his fellow campers, he was there to help when you needed him.

Ben was #2 of three boys, Cooper #1 and Scout # 3, these brothers where inseparable! They were always together, they were best of friends. These boys were raised with nothing but love by Dave and Paula and their loving family. Anytime you see them they always had smiles on their faces. They have respect,and love and care for people in general.

The Branford Community lost a great child on Friday but his spirit will reign through each and everyone of us! Ben you will always be remembered as a friend to all and #2 to all of us. You have touched so many people in your short time here on earth.

The Branford Football community and Callahan Family would like to invite all to come to the Branford Town Green Tomorrow evening (Sunday) at 7:30 p.m. for a candle light vigil to celebrate the life of Ben Callahan #2."

Branford Superintendent of Schools Hamlet M. Hernandez released a statement expressing his grief over the death of the child.

"Today, a ten-year-old child who attends the Branford Public Schools tragically lost his life. The student's name is being withheld out of respect to the family. Our collective hearts are broken and our thoughts and prayers are with the family. The school district is arranging for grief counselors to support children expierencing difficulties with the tragic passing of a classmate."

Information regarding grief counselors will be posted on the district's website at http://www.branfordschools.org... on Sunday.

Photo credit: Jack Kramer