La Mesa Police Officer Fatally Struck While Helping Motorists On Freeway

LA MESA, CA — Two people were killed, including a police officer, when they were struck by an oncoming vehicle while the officer was assisting motorists involved in crash on Interstate 8 in San Diego, authorities said.

The crash was reported shortly before 10:30 p.m. Monday on I-8 near Fairmount Avenue in San Diego, according to the La Mesa Police Department.

A car traveling eastbound on I-8 lost control and overturned, CBS8 reported. The vehicle was struck by another car in oncoming traffic.

La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven stopped to help the person whose vehicle had overturned when they were both struck by a third vehicle, according to the La Mesa Police Department.

Police said California Highway Patrol officers performed lifesaving efforts, but Craven was pronounced dead at the scene.

The CHP was handling the investigation.

"Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven, who tragically lost her life, late Monday night while serving others," the CHP said in a statement. "The CHP Border Communications Center stands with her family, friends and fellow officers during this difficult time."

Gov. Gavin Newsom also expressed his and his wife's sorrow over Craven's death in the line of duty.

"Officer Craven served her community with pride and dedication," Newsom said in a statement. "Jennifer and I are heartbroken by her loss and the significant impact her passing leaves on the larger San Diego community. We join her family, friends, and fellow officers in mourning. May her memory never be forgotten."

In honor of Craven, flags at the state Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff, Newsom said.

Craven joined the department in February 2024 and was assigned to the Patrol Division, according to the department. She was 25 years old.

"The La Mesa Police Department would like to thank our allied agencies for their unwavering support," the department said in a statement. "We ask that the La Mesa community keep Officer Craven, her family, and the La Mesa Police Department in their thoughts and prayers."