A Los Angeles firefighter who had been missing for three months was tragically found dead after disappearing while diving with friends. The body of Connor J. Lees, aged 29, was discovered off the coast of Long Beach, California on Friday, March 28. Lees, a dedicated six-year veteran of the Los Angeles Fire Department serving the Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw community, was off-duty when he went diving for lobsters near Pier J in Long Beach on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Unfortunately, he failed to resurface, as reported by the Long Beach Post. The city of Long Beach’s public safety agencies received a 911 call around 9:45 p.m. local time reporting Lees’ disappearance, prompting a coordinated search effort involving the Long Beach Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Los Angeles City Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguard Division, and Los Angeles Port Police operating under a Unified Command.
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Just two days later, on December 6, Lees was declared lost at sea, and the recovery operation was ceased by fire department officials. The Los Angeles Fire Department expressed their gratitude towards the multiple agencies involved, acknowledging their unwavering dedication and support during the search and recovery mission. Their professionalism, determination, and compassion offered solace to both the department and Lees’ loved ones in this challenging time. A GoFundMe page set up in honour of Lees has seen donations surpassing triple the initial target of $25,000. Through the fundraiser, family and friends are remembering Lees as a multifaceted individual who had a deep connection to the ocean. The organiser, Robin Jenks, reflected on Lees’ love for the water, which influenced various aspects of his life, shaping him into the person he was – an athlete, surfer, explorer, firefighter, and more. Jenks highlighted that Lees is now in a place he always cherished, suggesting that his bond with the sea remains eternal.
The discovery of Lees’ body brought closure to a prolonged period of uncertainty and sorrow for his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider community. The tragic outcome serves as a reminder of the risks undertaken by those in essential services such as firefighting, where dedication to duty can sometimes lead to unforeseen tragedies. The circumstances surrounding Lees’ disappearance and subsequent recovery will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all those who knew him, showcasing the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. As the community mourns the loss of a dedicated firefighter, they also celebrate his life and the significant contributions he made to those around him.
The news of firefighter Connor J. Lees’ untimely death has sent shockwaves through the Los Angeles firefighting community and beyond. His colleagues, friends, and family are left to grapple with the profound loss of a courageous individual who dedicated his life to serving others. The poignant story of Lees’ disappearance and eventual recovery serves as a sombre reminder of the risks faced by those in demanding professions, where bravery and selflessness are displayed daily. The heartfelt tributes pouring in for Lees underscore the impact he made on the lives of many, emphasising the importance of honouring his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. As the firefighting community mourns the passing of one of their own, they stand united in remembering and celebrating the life of Connor J. Lees, a hero who will forever be cherished and missed.