Fallen officer Lauren Craven, 25, died whereas attempting to assist others after an interstate crash.
LA MESA, Calif — The La Mesa Police Division is mourning the lack of Officer Lauren Craven, 25, who died Monday night time whereas serving to others.
In line with the division, she joined the La Mesa Police power in February 2024. She died late Monday night whereas attempting to help a crash on Interstate 8.
There was a legislation enforcement procession to the health worker’s workplace following her dying.
Tuesday morning, a memorial of flowers and candles continued to develop exterior La Mesa Police Headquarters. A number of individuals from the group, first responders, and different legislation enforcement businesses stopped by to pay their respects to the fallen officer.
“We did not simply lose an officer, we misplaced a beloved daughter, sister, girlfriend, teammate and buddy,” mentioned La Mesa Police Chief Ray Sweeney throughout a information convention Tuesday afternoon. “Lauren was a lightweight. Her positivity was speedy and real, whether or not serving to a colleague answering a stranger’s query or stepping up right into a troublesome case she was working, she led with compassion, braveness and professionalism.”
In the meantime, a number of individuals had been seen in tears as they talked about listening to the information of her dying.
“I care about our officers,” mentioned La Mesa resident Michelle Willis. “My oldest brother was an officer and he, sadly, handed so I’ve legislation enforcement in my household. It damage me [hearing of the officer’s death] it went straight to my coronary heart.”
“After they go well with up each single morning, you do not know in the event that they’re coming residence,” mentioned Amy Grady. Her husband is a retired Homeland Safety officer. “Each single day when these officers go well with up, they’re being courageous.”
“I am simply heartbroken.” mentioned group member Kim Herrera. “We misplaced certainly one of our personal. I’ve seen [Officer Craven] round. She was a lightweight and I am simply heartbroken for the entire group.”
“Whenever you did see her in her automobile, she would smile and provides somewhat wave, and that was a pleasant solution to join with the group. She positively did that,” she added.
“I do not know the officer or her household, however we’re all sort of brothers and sisters. Whether or not you are lively responsibility or retired,” mentioned Olen Golden, a retired California State Parks officer. He served 25 years.
“[Officer Craven] had the center and want to serve the general public, that is the place it is arduous for us. Her life was lower brief,” he mentioned.
Governor Gavin Newsom introduced flags on the state Capitol might be flown at half-staff. He issued the next assertion:
“Officer Craven served her group with pleasure and dedication. Jennifer and I are heartbroken by her loss and the numerous impression her passing leaves on the bigger San Diego group. We be a part of her household, associates, and fellow officers in mourning. Might her reminiscence by no means be forgotten.”
