Methuen man struck and killed on Christmas Eve

Callahan, a father of two and grandfather of one, was later pronounced dead at Caritas Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, police said.

Early this morning, police arrested the alleged driver of the Tercel, Arturo Cruz Jr., 29, of Springfield. Cruz Jr. was charged with leaving the scene of an accident after causing death, operating under the influence of alcohol, and operating after license revocation, according to Essex County prosecutors.

His bail was set at $50,000 and he was taken to the Essex County Correctional Facility in Middleton. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday at Lawrence District Court, the Essex district attorney’s office said.

Callahan’s fiancée, Jackie Gannon, 50, of Methuen, said the couple planned to relax this Christmas as Callahan had worked his last several off-days at the Shaw’s warehouse distribution center in Methuen. The engaged pair planned to finally get married next year after 16 years of dating, she said.

“I’m a mess,” she said. “He was my sole provider.”

Late last night, Callahan walked the half-mile from his home on Broadway to the local VFW on River Street -- his Christmas Eve tradition, Gannon said.

“He was walking home like he always does,” she said. “He goes to the VFW every Christmas Eve to wish everyone there a Merry Christmas.”

Callahan’s sister, Diana Coates of Dracut, said she and Callahan were two of 14 children.

“He has the biggest heart in the world. He would help anybody with anything,” Coates said crying. “He loved, loved, loved his family.”

Coates said the Christmas holiday provides a support system for the tragedy.