Executive Summary
- Steve Smith Trial Lawyers retained by the family of 12-year-old Brayden Callahan.
- Litigation targets RSU 13 and former driver Jeffrey Colburn regarding the Nov. 21 fatality.
- Accident report cites driver distraction and failure to yield in a marked crosswalk.
- Driver is no longer employed by the district as the police investigation continues.
The law firm of Steve Smith Trial Lawyers announced on December 17 that it has been retained to represent the family of 12-year-old Brayden Callahan, who was killed in a school bus incident in Rockland on November 21. The firm is acting as legal counsel for Shane Callahan and Kelley Morse in a matter against Regional School Unit 13 (RSU 13) and the bus driver involved, Jeffrey Colburn.
In a written statement, the firm asserted that the tragedy appears to involve "multiple points of failure" and affirmed its intention to pursue accountability for all responsible parties. "The matter involves serious allegations related to public safety, institutional responsibility, and the protection of children," the firm stated, noting that the events have had a significant impact on the surrounding community.
According to the accident report cited in the case coverage, the student was in a marked crosswalk when the incident occurred. The report states that the driver, 65-year-old Jeffrey Colburn of Camden, accelerated while the vehicle was in operation. A review of the on-board bus video reportedly showed Colburn leaning far to the right and failing to keep his eyes on the road. Colburn subsequently told police investigators that he did not see the child. The video evidence also indicated that the bus’s front crossing arm was not deployed at the time.
Colburn is no longer employed by the school district. While the civil litigation process initiates, the law enforcement investigation into the fatality remains active.
Legal and Investigative Outlook
This filing initiates a dual-track legal process, introducing civil liability considerations alongside the ongoing police investigation. The engagement of a trial firm suggests a focus on systemic safety protocols within RSU 13, specifically regarding driver supervision and the maintenance of safety equipment like crossing arms. While the civil pursuit addresses institutional accountability, the findings of the law enforcement probe will determine if the alleged driver distraction and failure to yield warrant criminal charges or regulatory sanctions. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
