Tragic Discovery: Body of Dallas Firefighter Found After Two-Day Search
Update:
1:11 p.m. June 23, 2025: This story has been updated with additional details.
The Incident
The body of a Dallas firefighter whose kayak was found overturned Saturday morning has been found following two days of searching, deputies said.
Juan Chaidez’s body was recovered from Lavon Lake near Bratonia Park around 7 a.m. Monday, according to a news release from the Collin County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities spent Saturday and Sunday searching the lake after a witness saw a dog paddling near an overturned kayak Saturday morning, deputies said.
The Search Efforts
The dog was rescued in “good condition,” but its owner was not found. It was determined that they were searching for Chaidez, a Dallas firefighter, deputies said in the release.
The Collin County Sheriff’s Office deployed patrol units, drone operators and its dive team to search the lake in Princeton. Several other agencies, including neighboring fire departments, Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also assisted.
Conclusion of the Search
The search for Chaidez continued Monday morning during which his body was found, deputies said in the release.
After he was found, Chaidez’s crew paid their respects and escorted his body to the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office. Chaidez was a member of Dallas Fire-Rescue for over six years.
Support for the Family
“The department is currently focusing its attention on Officer Chaidez’ family, and [as] well as the DFR family, through the provision of any and all resources available to help process this tragedy,” Dallas Fire-Rescue said in a news release Monday.
Bratonia Park, according to the news release, remains closed to the public for safety and ongoing operations.​
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Conclusion
The discovery of Juan Chaidez’s body brings a sense of closure to the community, but it also serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices that firefighters and their families face every day. As the Dallas Fire-Rescue department and the community come together to support Chaidez’s family, we honor his memory and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Juan Chaidez?
A: Juan Chaidez, a Dallas firefighter, was found dead after his kayak was discovered overturned on Lavon Lake. His body was recovered after a two-day search.
Q: How long did the search efforts last?
A: The search for Chaidez lasted for two days, from Saturday to Monday, involving multiple agencies and resources.
Q: What is the current status of Bratonia Park?
A: Bratonia Park remains closed to the public for safety and ongoing operations.
Q: How can I stay informed about crime and public safety news?
A: You can stay informed by reading the crime and public safety news that your neighbors are talking about.
