Caeden Laffan, a firefighter-paramedic with the Oakland Fire Department, tragically lost his life in a drowning incident at a San Diego beach. The 25-year-old was a third-generation firefighter, following in the footsteps of his late father, Oakland Assistant Fire Chief Sean Laffan, who died of a heart attack in 2020. The loss of Caeden has left his family, colleagues, and community in deep mourning.
Caeden Laffan died at Pacific Beach near Crystal Pier. The San Diego police responded to a report of a lost swimmer at Pacific Beach near Crystal Pier just before 2 a.m. on Thursday. The search for Caeden began around 2:15 a.m. after he was reported missing near Grand Avenue. Despite the efforts of San Diego lifeguards, Caeden was found dead after a two-hour search.
Caeden was a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the Oakland Fire Department, based at Fire Station 3 on 14th St. He was in San Diego visiting family and friends for the California Firefighter Summer Games. Known for his bright future and commitment to his work, Caeden’s death is a significant loss to the Oakland Fire Department and the broader community.
Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao expressed her condolences, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the news of Oakland Firefighter-Paramedic Caeden Laffan’s tragic passing. My heart goes out to the Laffan family as I join them, our Oakland Fire Department, and our city in grieving the loss of an exemplary young man who helped keep our communities safe.”
Oakland Fire Chief Damon Covington also shared his sorrow, saying, “Caeden Laffan was a young enthusiastic member of the Oakland Fire Department, with a bright future ahead of him, and we’re all heartbroken today after learning of this tragic event. Our hearts go out to the entire Laffan family, and all who know him, worked with him, and loved him. The Laffan family and I sincerely appreciate the coordination and support of the San Diego Fire Department as our members continue to respond and grieve.”
Assistant Fire Chief Chad Costa of the Oakland Fire Department added, “Heartfelt condolences to the Oakland Fire Department and the Oakland Firefighters Local 55 as they mourn the loss of 25-year-old Firefighter-Paramedic Caeden Laffan. FF Laffan passed away unexpectedly early this morning in San Diego, CA. Please keep the Oakland Fire Department in your thoughts during this difficult time.”
The Alameda Fire Department also extended their condolences, saying, “The Alameda Fire Department extends our most heartfelt condolences to Oakland Fire Department as they mourn the loss of 25-year-old Firefighter-Paramedic Caeden Laffan. FF Laffan passed away unexpectedly early this morning in San Diego, CA. Please keep the Oakland Fire Department in your thoughts during this sadden time.”
Caeden Laffan’s dedication to his profession and his community was evident throughout his career. He was known for his commitment to helping others and his passion for his work. His passing is not only a loss to his family and friends but also to the entire firefighting community. Caeden’s legacy as a dedicated firefighter-paramedic will be remembered by all who knew him and were impacted by his service.
The Laffan family has a long history of service with the Oakland Fire Department, making Caeden’s death particularly poignant. His father, Sean Laffan, served as the Assistant Fire Chief and was highly respected within the department. Caeden’s commitment to following in his father’s footsteps and his dedication to the fire service were sources of pride for his family and colleagues.
As the Oakland Fire Department and the community come to terms with this tragic loss, they are also focusing on supporting each other through this difficult time. The bonds within the firefighting community are strong, and this loss has only reinforced the importance of that support. The department is providing counseling and support services to its members to help them cope with the grief and loss they are experiencing.
The impact of Caeden’s death is felt beyond the Oakland Fire Department. Fire departments from across the region have expressed their condolences and support. The solidarity and camaraderie among firefighters are evident as they rally to support the Laffan family and the Oakland Fire Department.
Caeden Laffan’s death is a stark reminder of the dangers and unpredictability of life, even for those dedicated to saving others. As the investigation into the circumstances of his drowning continues, the community is left to grapple with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a young man who had so much potential and so much more to give.
In honoring Caeden’s memory, the Oakland Fire Department and the community will continue to uphold the values and dedication that he exemplified. His legacy will live on through the stories shared by his colleagues, the lives he touched, and the example he set for future generations of firefighters. Caeden Laffan will be remembered not only for his tragic death but for his commitment to service, his enthusiasm for his work, and the profound impact he had on those around him. His memory will serve as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of firefighters everywhere.
