Body of Missing L.A. Firefighter Discovered in Long Beach Waters

Los Angeles(Thechieftainspear) – The remains of a Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) firefighter who went missing while diving off the Long Beach coast over three months ago have been recovered, officials confirmed.

Discovery of Firefighter Connor J. Lees

On March 26, authorities located and recovered the body of 29-year-old Connor J. Lees in the ocean near Long Beach. Lees, who had served with LAFD for six years, was last seen on December 4, 2024, when he disappeared while free diving near Pier J in the Port of Long Beach.

Free diving, a sport that involves diving without the use of scuba gear while holding one’s breath, was a passion of Lees. That evening, he was with three companions when he failed to return to their boat.

Search and Recovery Efforts

A large-scale multi-agency search was launched when Lees’ fellow divers called for help at approximately 10 p.m. The search involved teams from the U.S. Coast Guard, LAFD, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Long Beach Police Department, and Los Angeles Port Police.

Despite their extensive efforts, authorities shifted the mission from rescue to recovery after 19 hours, concluding that Lees had likely been lost at sea.

“This decision was not made lightly,” the Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) said in a statement at the time. “Our thoughts remain with Firefighter Lees’ family, colleagues, and friends.”

Remembering Firefighter Lees

On December 22, a candlelight vigil was held at Seal Beach, where loved ones gathered to honor Lees’ life and legacy. His LAFD colleagues remembered him as a dedicated firefighter who served at Fire Station 94 B Platoon, located in the Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw community.

After his body was recovered, LAFD expressed its deep condolences to Lees’ loved ones and thanked the Long Beach Police and Fire Departments for their efforts in bringing closure to the case.

“We are heartbroken by this loss and stand with Firefighter Lees’ family, friends, and colleagues in their grief,” LAFD said in a statement. “We extend our gratitude to those who worked tirelessly in the search and recovery efforts.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Lees’ family during this difficult time.