Andrew Haden, former acting U.S. Attorney, found dead in San Diego federal building

Andrew Haden, a former acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California, was found dead on Wednesday inside the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building in downtown San Diego. Haden had been reported missing earlier that day.

San Diego police responded to the scene at the federal building, which houses the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Authorities stated that no foul play is suspected, though the official cause and manner of death will be determined by the medical examiner.

A veteran prosecutor and Navy veteran, Haden joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2010. He held several high-level positions, including Chief of the Criminal Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney. He twice served as acting U.S. Attorney during leadership transitions in 2023 and early 2025.

U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon described the death as ‘one of the darkest days in our office’s history,’ praising Haden as a ‘beacon of light’ known for his integrity and commitment to the community.