Ridgefield High School Mourns Loss of Brandon Gmelin, 18, After Tragic Equipment Accident in South Salem
On the evening of July 16, 2025, Ridgefield resident and Class of 2025 graduate, Brandon Gmelin, age 18, was found unresponsive at a private residence just over the border in South Salem, New York. Responding officers from the New York State Police, Lewisboro Police, and other first responders discovered Brandon trapped under a log splitter that had rolled during landscaping work conducted earlier that day. Despite immediate medical aid, Brandon was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have indicated that no foul play is suspected, though the investigation remains ongoing
đź’” Community & School Response
Brandon was more than a graduate—he was a well-loved member of the Ridgefield High School lacrosse team, earning All‑FCIAC honors this spring. Students and staff remember him as warm, friendly, and dependable—a student-athlete who embodied school spirit
Superintendent Susie Da Silva acknowledged the community’s grief, stating that his “warmth, kindness, and unwavering friendship touched the lives of many,” and that his loss “will be felt deeply across RHS and the greater Ridgefield community”
🧠Support & Resources
In light of the tragedy, Ridgefield Public Schools swiftly arranged mental health support services, making school counselors, psychologists, and social workers available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and again on Monday. Superintendent Da Silva emphasized the importance of community support, urging anyone affected to reach out and utilize the available resources
🔍 Investigation Details
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The accident happened while Brandon was handling a heavy log splitter on sloped terrain.
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The machine unexpectedly rolled and struck him, causing fatal injuries
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Law enforcement confirms the incident is under investigation but currently sees no signs of foul play .
🕊️ Remembering Brandon
Brandon Gmelin represented everything Ridgefield High cherishes—athleticism, camaraderie, and a spirit of kindness. His achievements on the lacrosse field—earning All‑FCIAC honors—reflected his dedication and team-first mentality
Beyond sports, Brandon was known for his genuine warmth. Superintendent Da Silva highlighted that Brandon’s “emotional presence” left a lasting mark on classmates, teachers, and community members alike .
🛣️ Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief and support. Ridgefield schools will maintain counseling services going forward and encourage open dialogue to aid healing and resilience.
Neighbors, teammates, and friends are holding one another close, determined to carry Brandon’s legacy through acts of kindness, shared memories, and mutual support.
âś… Summary of Key Points
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Who | Brandon Gmelin, 18, Ridgefield High School graduate & lacrosse standout |
| What | Crushed by a log splitter during landscaping; no foul play suspected |
| When/Where | Evening of July 16, 2025; South Salem, NY (just over Ridgefield line) |
| School Response | Mental health services provided; staff & community support activated |
| Investigation | Ongoing; preliminary conclusion: tragic accident, no signs of crime |
| Legacy | Remembered for kindness, sportsmanship, and emotional strength |
đź’ˇ Final Thoughts
The loss of Brandon Gmelin is not just a personal tragedy for his family—it’s a communal wound. Yet, in his passing, Ridgefield has shown what it means to come together, uplift one another, and honor the memory of a life well-lived.
If you’re struggling with grief or know someone who is, please seek support—whether it’s through school counselors, mental health professionals, or trusted friends. No one should go through pain alone.
May Brandon’s spirit continue to inspire acts of kindness, courage, and empathy in Ridgefield and beyond.