More Than 1,000 Attend Candlelight Vigil To 'Celebrate The Life Of Ben' Callahan, 10

Photo at the top courtesy of Ian Christmann

By Jack Kramer, Patch Correspondent

BRANFORD, CT - A crowd of well over 1,000 people jammed the Branford Green Sunday night to say goodbye to a 10-year-old boy who tragically drowned after falling into the Branford River on Friday.

Several speakers spoke about Ben Callahan, 10, who died Friday after falling into river and being swept away by the current while playing with his two brothers. He was found dead inside a pipe by rescue workers after a three hour search.

At the end of the speeches, a candelight vigil was held on the Green in Ben’s honor. Among those in attendance were members of Ben’s family and the many sports teams that Ben played on.

Doug Shaw, who emceed the night’s program on the Green, repeatedly told the crowd that they “were here tonight to celebrate, that’s right celebrate, the life of Ben.” Shaw said he was particularly proud of Branford.

“When a town suffers a tragedy a community comes together. Look at this crowd,” said Shaw.

Also speaking was First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove.

“The heart of Branford is wounded,” said Cosgrove. “Branford is a small town and when such tragedy strikes a small town feels it deeply.”

Also speaking was Pastor Steve Chamberlain of Branford Evangelical Free Church, who has known the Callahan family for quite a long time.

“The last few days have been a punch in the gut,” said Chamberlain.

The Green was packed with supporters of the Callahan family.

Meanwhile, mourners have made visits to where he was found a memorial, placing flowers, and sports memorabilia near the river.

Since his death, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched and has raised more than $15,320 as of 8:15 p.m. on Sunday night.

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 every one 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.

Photo credit: Ian Christmann

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

"(Friday), a ten-year-old child who attends the Branford Public Schools tragically lost his life...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 experiencing difficulties with the tragic passing of a classmate."

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

Photos by Jack Kramer and Ian Christmann