URGENT UPDATE: A San Francisco fire department lieutenant is currently under investigation following controversial comments made online regarding federal immigration enforcement. Lt. David Waters, who has served with the San Francisco Fire Department for over a decade, expressed support for an ICE operation in Oakland, stating he wished for more deportations.
The incident centers around a November 19, 2023 ICE operation in West Oakland, during which an ICE vehicle was involved in a high-speed chase that damaged a pregnant woman’s car. Fortunately, she was unharmed. Waters commented on this event on social media, using a GIF with the phrase “Gotta catch ‘em all!”—a reference to the Pokémon franchise—which raised eyebrows among community members.
After his initial post, Waters engaged further with users on the platform, questioning accusations of racism for wanting to deport undocumented immigrants. He stated, “You don’t get to enter a country illegally then complain when you’re told to leave or detained and forced to leave!”
In response to the uproar, Lt. Mariano Elias of the San Francisco Fire Department released a statement emphasizing that Waters’ comments do not align with the department’s values. “We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we do not tolerate behavior that promotes hate or discrimination,” Elias said, confirming that the department is taking the matter seriously and will explore disciplinary actions if necessary.
Waters’ social media accounts have since been deleted, and his LinkedIn profile now lists him as a “landscape photographer,” with his fire department affiliation removed. Records show Waters earned a total salary of $319,625.98 in his last year, with $264,773.96 in pay and additional benefits.
This investigation unfolds as tensions rise around immigration policies and the role of local law enforcement in federal operations. The San Francisco Fire Department has committed to protecting and serving all community members, regardless of immigration status, highlighting the urgency of this situation.
As this story develops, community members and advocates are closely watching to see how the department will uphold its principles and what actions will be taken against Lt. Waters.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.