Body of Missing LAFD Fireman, Surfer Found at Sea

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Mar 30, 2025 10:31 AM ET

The body of a Los Angeles Fire Department firefighter has been found, months after he went missing. Connor Lees, 29, an avid surfer and ocean-lover in addition to his career, went free-diving on December 4th, 2024; now, nearly four months later, authorities have found his remains.

Following his disappearance, a GoFundMe account was activated to support his family. “As we look to the sea,” it reads, “at the waves of its surf, at the beauty of its depths, at the sunset on its horizon, we wait to discover the full text of Connor's story. For now, we are assured that he is where he always wanted to be. He loved the water and everything it brings to our lives. It shaped him into the boy, the son, the brother, the friend, the athlete, the surfer, the explorer, the firefighter, the companion, and the man he became. In his time, Connor will tell us how he and the sea forever remain connected.”

A candlelight vigil was also held weeks after his disappearance in Seal Beach.

In an Instagram post, the LAFD broke the news about Lees’ body, explained what happened, and honored their fallen:

“It is with profound sadness that we share an update regarding Firefighter III Connor J. Lees.

“On March 28, 2025, the Long Beach Police Department recovered the body of Firefighter Connor J. Lees from the waters off Long Beach. Firefighter Lees, 29, was a dedicated member of the Los Angeles City Fire Department for six years, serving with distinction at Fire Station 94 B Platoon in the Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw community. He was off duty at the time of his disappearance, recreationally diving with friends.

“As previously reported, on December 4, 2024, the City of Long Beach's public safety agencies responded to a 9-1-1 call regarding a missing diver in the Port of Long Beach. The Long Beach Fire Department immediately initiated a coordinated search effort, joined by the Long Beach Police Department, the Los Angeles City Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguard Division, and the Los Angeles Port Police, operating under a Unified Command. Despite an exhaustive and highly technical search, Firefighter Lees was presumed lost at sea, and recovery efforts were concluded on December 6, 2024.

“The LAFD stands united in grief alongside Firefighter Lees’ family, friends, and colleagues. We extend our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him.”

Rest in peace, Connor Lees. See the GoFundMe page here.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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