Ketchikan, Alaska — In a heart-wrenching tragedy, the close-knit community of Ketchikan, Alaska, is grappling with the loss of a beloved resident and public servant, Sean Griffin, following a devastating landslide that struck the town on Sunday. Griffin, a 17-year veteran of the City of Ketchikan Public Works team, was performing his duties by clearing stormwater drains when the massive slide occurred, burying parts of the town under a deluge of debris and taking his life.
The landslide, which took place in the early hours of August 25, 2024, has caused widespread destruction, blocking roads, damaging properties, and leaving a scar on the community. The severe weather conditions leading up to the disaster, including days of intense rainfall that saturated the ground, were key factors contributing to the slide’s enormity. Three other individuals sustained injuries during the incident, with two requiring hospitalization.
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough officially confirmed Sean Griffin’s death, honoring his deep commitment to his family and the community. In a statement, the borough reflected on Griffin’s life and service: “Sean was a beloved husband, father, son, neighbor, and coworker. His dedication to public service was evident through his years of work and his willingness to respond to emergencies even during his time off.”
Griffin’s passing has left a significant void in Ketchikan, where he was not just a public servant but a cherished member of the community. His dedication and selflessness in the face of danger have been highlighted as emblematic of his character and his commitment to the welfare of Ketchikan’s residents.
The landslide has been described as one of the most catastrophic events in recent memory for Ketchikan. Mayor Dave Kiffer, who has lived in Ketchikan for 65 years, expressed his shock at the disaster’s scale: “In my 65 years in Ketchikan, I have never seen a slide of this magnitude.” The destruction has left the town reeling, with substantial damage to infrastructure and homes.
In response to the disaster, Governor Mike Dunleavy issued a disaster declaration, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for state resources to aid in recovery efforts. The declaration unlocks critical state assistance, allowing for a more comprehensive response to the emergency.
As the town works to recover from the disaster, immediate steps have been taken to support those displaced and affected by the landslide. The Ketchikan Borough School District announced the closure of schools on Tuesday and Wednesday to ensure the safety of students and staff. Ketchikan High School has been repurposed as a temporary shelter, offering refuge to 12 individuals who have been forced from their homes.
Authorities have ordered evacuations for residents in the most heavily impacted areas, prioritizing their safety as assessments of the damage continue. The community has rallied together, with local organizations and volunteers stepping up to provide assistance, underscoring the resilience and solidarity that define Ketchikan.
The cause of the landslide is currently under investigation, with officials focusing on the combination of environmental and structural factors that led to the disaster. The investigation aims to prevent similar incidents in the future, as well as to identify any immediate threats that could jeopardize the safety of residents in other parts of the town.
The loss of Sean Griffin has cast a long shadow over Ketchikan, but it has also brought the community together in mourning and remembrance. As residents honor his memory, they are reminded of the importance of service, sacrifice, and unity in the face of adversity. The recovery process will undoubtedly be long and challenging, but Ketchikan’s resilience, embodied by individuals like Griffin, will guide the town through this difficult time.
As Ketchikan moves forward, the focus will be on rebuilding and healing. The community’s collective strength will play a crucial role in overcoming the physical and emotional scars left by the landslide. The town is determined to learn from this tragedy, implementing measures to safeguard against future disasters while holding onto the memory of a man who gave his all for the place he called home.
In the wake of this tragic event, Ketchikan stands as a testament to the power of community, even in the face of overwhelming loss. The memory of Sean Griffin will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who benefited from his unwavering dedication to public service.