Former Acting US Attorney Andrew Haden was found dead inside a federal building in San Diego on Wednesday, hours after he was reported missing, according to reports.
The 48-year-old Haden was discovered inside an office at the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building. San Diego police responded to the scene as a precaution, but investigators said there was no immediate indication of foul play.
The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the medical examiner.
Andrew Haden cause of death: 5 things to know
- Cause of death not yet confirmed: Haden was reported missing on Wednesday and was found dead several hours later. The medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of his death.
- Long career with US Attorney’s Office: Haden joined the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California in 2010. He served as Acting US Attorney twice during leadership transitions, including brief periods in 2023 and 2025.
- Police say foul play is not suspected: San Diego police investigators responded to the federal building “out of an abundance of caution”. Authorities said there was no indication of foul play.
- US Attorney Adam Gordon pays tribute: Southern District US Attorney Adam Gordon described Haden’s death as one of the darkest days in the office’s history while praising his character and public service. Gordon said Haden was “a beacon of light” known for his laughter, friendship, integrity and dedication to the community.
- Office staff informed of his death: Gordon met with employees on Thursday and later emailed staff to inform them about Haden’s death, according to reports.
Authorities have not publicly released further details about Haden’s family out of consideration for his wife and children.
Who was Andrew Haden?
Haden was born in San Diego and attended University City High School before studying political science at Stanford University.
He later worked as a prosecutor and served five years in the US Navy, including two overseas deployments.
Haden subsequently earned his law degree from the University of San Diego School of Law and worked as a law clerk for US District Judge Thomas J. Whelan in the Southern District of California.
His death has prompted an outpouring of grief within the US Attorney’s Office, where colleagues remembered him for his commitment to public service and his longstanding connection to the San Diego community.