OGDEN, Utah — The Ogden community is reeling after a tragic shooting claimed the life of 16-year-old Ben Lomond High School student Mason Caballero on Tuesday afternoon. The fatal incident occurred shortly after school dismissal, just blocks away from the campus.
According to the Ogden Police Department and Ogden School District, the shooting happened around 2:45 p.m. near 5th Street and Gramercy Avenue. While the exact circumstances remain under investigation, officials confirmed that the shooting took place off school property and there was no ongoing threat to students or staff.
After being shot, Caballero reportedly made his way toward Ben Lomond High School, seeking help. Staff members and the school resource officer acted immediately, providing lifesaving aid until emergency medical responders arrived. The teen was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, Principal Velden Wardle expressed the deep sorrow felt throughout the school community:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that the student has passed away as a result of their injuries. Out of respect for the student’s family and because this remains an active police investigation, we are unable to release additional details at this time.”
The Ogden School District clarified that the tragedy is not related to the recent hoax bomb threat that disrupted Ben Lomond High School the previous week. Following the shooting, all extracurricular activities were canceled, and nearby schools implemented temporary security measures.
Highland Junior High School went into a brief “secure” status—locking exterior doors and keeping students indoors—until police confirmed the situation was under control. East Ridge Elementary School also briefly enacted precautionary measures for staff and remaining students.
In a joint message to families, Principal Wardle and Superintendent Luke Rasmussen extended condolences and emphasized the district’s commitment to supporting students during this difficult time:
“Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, and all who are grieving this devastating loss. We mourn together as a school community. Law enforcement has verified that there was never an active threat to students or staff on our campus. Ben Lomond High School remains a safe and supportive place for all students.”
Grief counselors and trained mental health professionals will be available at Ben Lomond High School throughout the week to provide emotional support to students and staff.
The Ogden Police Department continues to investigate the shooting, but no arrests or suspect details have been released as of Wednesday morning. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The loss of Mason Caballero has left a profound mark on Ogden — a community now united in grief, remembrance, and the pursuit of justice for a young life taken far too soon.