The crash initially involved two vehicles — one of which overturned and came to rest on its roof in the eastbound lanes. A third vehicle then struck the overturned car, killing that driver, a 19-year-old male.

Officer Craven, who was returning from duty at the San Diego Central Jail, came upon the crash and stopped her patrol vehicle to help. Although she had not been dispatched to the scene, she exited her car to render aid to those involved.

While she was assisting, another vehicle approached and collided with the crash scene, striking Officer Craven and others nearby. A fifth car then became involved in the aftermath of the impact. Officer Craven and the 19-year-old driver from the overturned vehicle were both pronounced dead at the scene.

The California Highway Patrol launched an investigation into the sequence of collisions and the driver or drivers involved in the secondary impacts. Authorities have not yet released details about whether impairment, distraction, or excessive speed played a role.

About Officer Lauren Craven

Officer Lauren Craven joined the La Mesa Police Department in February 2024 as a patrol officer. She had turned 25 years old just a few weeks before her death.

Colleagues described her as a tenacious, compassionate, and courageous young officer who was deeply committed to community service. She was known for her positive spirit and eagerness to help others both on and off duty.

Her father shared that Lauren was inspired to enter law enforcement after surviving an assault during her college years — an experience that led her to want to help others the same way a detective once helped her.

Aftermath and Community Response

The La Mesa Police Department expressed deep sorrow over her death, calling her actions in the final moments of her life “selfless and heroic.”

Governor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the California State Capitol to fly at half-staff in her honor.

Public officials, law enforcement agencies, and community members throughout the San Diego region paid tribute to Officer Craven’s bravery and service. Her death also reignited public reminders of the importance of the Move Over Law, which requires drivers to slow down and, when safe, change lanes for stopped emergency or service vehicles.

Additional Details

• The crash led to a full closure of the eastbound lanes of Interstate 8 near Fairmount Avenue overnight for investigation and cleanup. The freeway reopened around 1 p.m. the following day.

• Officer Craven was among several first responders and Good Samaritans who had stopped to help; others sustained injuries, though their conditions have not been publicly detailed.

• A memorial is being planned in her honor by the La Mesa Police Department and the City of La Mesa.