‘She will never be forgotten’: Police officer killed in line of duty while responding to car crash

(Gray News) - A 25-year-old police officer in California was killed in the line of duty as she was trying to help the victims in a car crash.

On Monday, La Mesa Police Department officer Lauren Craven had been “driving eastbound on Interstate 8 at Fairmount Avenue when she stopped to help two people involved in a crash on the freeway,” according to a news release.

A 25-year-old police officer has been struck and killed in the line of duty while helping... — A 25-year-old police officer has been struck and killed in the line of duty while helping other motorists following a collision in California, authorities have said.(Source: La Mesa Police Department)

While helping the victims, Officer Craven was struck by an oncoming vehicle. California Highway Patrol officers performed lifesaving efforts, but she died at the scene.

Officer Craven’s actions in her final moments exemplified her unwavering dedication to service and the safety of others—a reflection of how she lived every day, the department said in a post. “Officer Craven was known for her tenacity, courage, and compassion—qualities that inspired her peers and strengthened her community."

Officer Craven joined the department in February 2024 and was assigned to the Patrol Division.

The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation.