Family and Community Gather to Honor Life of Fallen Firefighter Connor Lees
Family, friends, and colleagues gathered in Seal Beach on Sunday to pay tribute to the life of Connor Lees, a 29-year-old firefighter with the Los Angeles Fire Department who tragically passed away during a recreational free dive on December 5.
The Incident
Lees and three other divers in their 20s went for a free dive in the waters off Long Beach, which involves holding one’s breath for as long as possible while diving without scuba gear. According to Long Beach Fire spokesperson Brian Fisk, one of the men was piloting a small watercraft while the others were free diving. Only two of the three divers returned from the dive, and the three men called for emergency help just before 10 a.m.
Search and Rescue Efforts
A multi-agency search was launched, involving divers from the U.S. Coast Guard, LAFD, L.A. County Fire, LBPD, and the L.A. Port Police. The search lasted for more than 19 hours, during which time officials made the difficult decision to transition from a search and rescue mission to a recovery mission.
Investigation and Tributes
Officials told the Los Angeles Times that investigators did not suspect foul play, and that Lees was believed to be lost at sea. Lees was a six-year veteran of LAFD and grew up in Seal Beach. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a passionate individual who loved the ocean and the beach.
Vigil and Tributes
A vigil was held in Seal Beach to honor Lees’ life, where friends and family gathered to pay their respects. The community came together to mourn the loss of a young man who was loved by many. The event was a testament to the impact Lees had on those around him, and the sense of loss and grief that his passing has caused.
Conclusion
Connor Lees’ tragic death is a reminder of the risks and uncertainties that come with recreational activities, and the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure safety. The outpouring of support and tributes from the community is a testament to the impact he had on those around him, and the sense of loss and grief that his passing has caused.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Connor Lees?
A: Lees, a 29-year-old firefighter, died during a recreational free dive in the waters off Long Beach on December 5.
Q: How did the incident occur?
A: Lees and three other divers went for a free dive, and only two of the three returned from the dive. The three men called for emergency help just before 10 a.m.
Q: What was the response to the incident?
A: A multi-agency search was launched, involving divers from the U.S. Coast Guard, LAFD, L.A. County Fire, LBPD, and the L.A. Port Police. The search lasted for more than 19 hours, during which time officials made the difficult decision to transition from a search and rescue mission to a recovery mission.
Q: What was the cause of Lees’ death?
A: Officials told the Los Angeles Times that investigators did not suspect foul play, and that Lees was believed to be lost at sea.
