Captain Donald Cragen, a longtime character on Law & Order: SVU, died off- screen of natural causes as revealed in the Season 27 premiere episode "In the Wind." After an eleven-year retirement, Cragen passed away peacefully. The episode featured a memorial service attended by many former colleagues from SVU, reflecting on his career and impact. His death marked the loss of one of the franchise's most iconic and enduring characters who served as a mentor and moral compass for the team. No specific cause of death was detailed, just that he had been retired and out of touch with the precinct for some time before his passing. His final message to the squad, shown in a video at the memorial, emphasized his dedication and the privilege of serving with them.
