SDPD officer, former Marine, dies of pancreatic cancer at 43

A 43-year-old San Diego Police Department officer and Marine veteran has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer, it was announced Wednesday.

Lt. Brian Avera spent nearly two decades with the SDPD, and had fought the disease since 2024, officials said.

Avera joined the department in 2006, served six years on the San Diego Police Officers Association Board and two years on its executive board. He also held a leadership role as Metro Chapter president of the National Latino Peace Officers Association.

“Brian was a dedicated San Diego Police Department Lieutenant, a proud Marine who served in Iraq, and a lecturer in San Diego State University’s Criminal Justice program. He devoted his life to service – both to his country and to his community,” according to a statement from the Peace Officer’s Research Association of California.

Avera is survived by his wife, Hillary, and their two children, Ava, 8, and Brian Jr., 4.

The police officers association is raising funds for the Avera family, with all proceeds going to support a memorial service for him and to assist his loved ones. A date for the service has not yet been set.

Donations can be made online.