16-Year-Old Mason Caballero Fatally Shot Near Ben Lomond High School in Ogden; Community Grieves as Police Investigate Tragic Incident
OGDEN, Utah — A devastating tragedy has shaken the city of Ogden after a 16-year-old student, identified as Mason Caballero, was fatally shot Tuesday afternoon near Ben Lomond High School. The heartbreaking incident has left classmates, teachers, and the wider community mourning the loss of a young life filled with promise and potential.
According to the Ogden Police Department, officers were dispatched to the area of 5th Street and Gramercy Avenue at approximately 2:45 p.m. following reports of gunfire near the high school. When officers arrived, they discovered that the victim, later identified as Mason, had sustained a gunshot wound. Authorities say Mason managed to make his way toward Ben Lomond High School in search of help after being shot.
Emergency medical personnel and school staff provided immediate aid before Mason was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, he tragically succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
The Ogden School District released a statement expressing its profound sorrow and confirming that grief counselors and crisis response teams would be made available for students and staff struggling to process the tragedy.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of one of our students,” the district’s statement read. “Our deepest condolences go out to Mason’s family, friends, and everyone affected by this tragedy. The safety and well-being of our students remain our top priority, and we are working closely with law enforcement as the investigation continues.”
Police have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the shooting. Detectives are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the violence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing security footage from the area. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Neighbors in the typically peaceful Ogden neighborhood described the terrifying scene as police and emergency vehicles filled the streets Tuesday afternoon. “It was chaos — sirens everywhere,” one resident said. “You just don’t expect something like this to happen right by a school. My heart breaks for that boy and his family.”
Friends and classmates of Mason have begun leaving flowers, handwritten notes, and candles near the school grounds in tribute. Many described him as kind, funny, and full of energy — a teen who loved being around friends and was known for his bright smile.
“He was one of those people who could make anyone laugh,” said one student. “It doesn’t feel real that he’s gone.”
The Ogden Police Department has emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public or the school community at this time. Still, the incident has reignited discussions around youth violence, safety, and the emotional toll such tragedies take on local communities.
As investigators continue their work, the community of Ogden is coming together to honor Mason’s memory and to support one another through the grief. A candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned by classmates and community members to celebrate his life and to stand united against senseless acts of violence.
Police urge anyone with information related to the shooting to contact Ogden Police detectives at (801) 629-8221 or to submit anonymous tips through Weber County Crime Stoppers.
The loss of 16-year-old Mason Caballero has left an indelible mark on Ogden — a painful reminder of how fragile life can be, and how deeply a single act of violence can ripple through a community.
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