Ketchikan Resident Sean Griffin Killed in Massive Landslide

Ketchikan, Alaska — Sean Griffin, a long-time Ketchikan resident and dedicated public servant, has been identified as the victim of a devastating landslide that struck the Southeast Alaska town on Sunday. Griffin, a 17-year veteran of the City of Ketchikan Public Works team, was out clearing stormwater drains when the massive slide hit, burying parts of the community in debris.

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough confirmed Griffin’s death and praised his lifelong commitment to his family and community. “Sean was a beloved husband, father, son, neighbor, and coworker,” the borough stated. “His dedication to public service was evident through his years of work and his willingness to respond to emergencies even during his time off.”

The landslide, which occurred in the early hours of August 25, 2024, caused significant destruction across several neighborhoods, leaving roads blocked and properties heavily damaged. The severe weather conditions leading up to the slide, including intense rainfall that saturated the ground, contributed to the disaster’s magnitude. The slide also resulted in injuries to three other individuals, with two requiring hospitalization.

Governor Mike Dunleavy has issued a disaster declaration in response to the landslide, underscoring the scale of the emergency. “In my 65 years in Ketchikan, I have never seen a slide of this magnitude,” said Ketchikan City Mayor Dave Kiffer. The local community is grappling with the aftermath, including significant property damage and disruption to daily life.

In response to the disaster, the Ketchikan Borough School District announced the cancellation of classes for Tuesday and Wednesday. Ketchikan High School has been designated as a shelter for displaced families, with 12 people currently seeking refuge there. The city has also ordered evacuations for residents in the affected areas to ensure their safety.

As the community begins to recover from this tragic event, authorities and local officials are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide support to those affected. The loss of Sean Griffin has deeply impacted Ketchikan, highlighting the resilience and solidarity of the town in the face of such adversity.

The investigation into the landslide and its causes is ongoing, with efforts focused on preventing future incidents and addressing the immediate needs of the affected residents. The community remains in mourning, honoring Griffin’s memory and his unwavering service to Ketchikan.