The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden, who was found dead last month inside a downtown San Diego federal building, died by suicide.
Haden, 48, was reported missing early in the evening on Aug. 19 and found dead late that night inside an office in the building that houses the U.S. Attorney’s Office. San Diego police said at the time that no foul play was suspected, and a source with knowledge of the matter told the Union-Tribune that his death was being investigated as a suicide. The Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the manner of death.
Haden was a father of two and former U.S. Navy officer who had twice served as acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of California, one of the largest and busiest offices in the nation, during transitions between full-time leaders. He had also twice served as the No. 2 in the office.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon declined to comment Tuesday. On the day after Haden died, Gordon called it one of the darkest days in the history of the San Diego U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“He was a beacon of light — full of laughter, friendship, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community,” Gordon said at the time. “We will honor his life and legacy by carrying his light forward, today and always.”
If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis or having suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Staff writer Caleb Lunetta contributed to this report.