Brayden Callahan Death News – Schools across Rockland, Maine, will not hold regular classes on Monday and Tuesday following a deeply upsetting incident in which a young student lost his life after being involved in a bus-related accident on Friday. District leaders say the decision was made to ensure students, families, and staff have space and support as they navigate an emotionally challenging time.
In a message sent to families on Sunday, Regional School Unit 13 Superintendent John McDonald acknowledged the emotional impact the weekend has had on the entire community. He explained that November 24 and 25 would not be standard school days, allowing additional time for healing and reflection. Superintendent McDonald also shared that the district plans to resume normal schedules on Monday, December 1, with the hope that returning to familiar routines will help restore stability for students and staff.
While most schools in the district will be fully closed on Monday and Tuesday, two campuses—South School and Oceanside High School—will open from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. These locations will serve as safe and supportive spaces where students, families, and staff can speak with trained professionals, connect with school leaders, and receive emotional support as needed. The district emphasized its commitment to ensuring every child has access to help during this difficult period.
The incident occurred Friday afternoon, around 2:20 p.m., when Rockland police, firefighters, and emergency medical teams responded to a report of a pedestrian and a vehicle at the intersection of Broadway and Eliza Steele Drive. According to authorities, the student was provided immediate assistance at the scene before being flown to Maine Medical Center for urgent care. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical personnel, the child later passed away.
Police officials have not released the student’s name due to privacy considerations. However, according to reporting from News Center Maine, a family member—specifically the child’s grandmother—shared that the student was 12-year-old Brayden Callahan. Community members have since expressed grief and sympathy, offering support to the family during an unimaginable loss.
Regional School Unit 13 posted a statement on its official Facebook page confirming that a student had been involved in an incident with a school bus on Friday. The district noted that emergency responders acted quickly to provide medical attention and emphasized that officials are fully cooperating with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation. RSU 13 serves students in Rockland, South Thomaston, Thomaston, Owl’s Head, and Cushing, and district leaders stated they are working closely with police, emergency personnel, and community partners.
As of now, police have not indicated whether the bus driver involved will face any charges. The case remains under active review by several agencies, including the Rockland Police Department, the Knox County District Attorney’s Office, and the Maine State Police. Authorities have not provided additional details as investigations of this nature require careful and thorough examination.
Community members, school staff, and local leaders have expressed deep sympathy for all who have been affected. The district reaffirmed that its priority is ensuring students feel supported, safe, and cared for as they process the news. Administrators encouraged families to reach out if their children need additional guidance or emotional assistance.
As Rockland prepares for the upcoming week, the focus remains on compassion, healing, and bringing the community together during a time of significant grief. The district’s plan to provide support services reflects its commitment to helping students and families navigate the emotional aftermath of this tragedy while honoring the memory of the young life lost.
