La Mesa, California, December 3, 2025
Officer Lauren Craven, a dedicated 25-year-old with the La Mesa Police Department, was killed while assisting at a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 8. The incident highlights the risks faced by officers and the community’s support in honoring her legacy. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed condolences, and a law enforcement procession was held in her honor, reflecting the sorrow of her family, friends, and the department. The arrested driver, suspected of DUI, is part of an ongoing investigation as the community mourns her loss.
La Mesa, California
La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven, a 25-year-old Bend, Oregon native, was killed in the line of duty on October 20, 2025, while assisting at the scene of a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 8 in San Diego County.
Officer Craven had been with the La Mesa Police Department since February 2024, serving in the patrol division. She was known for her dedication to service and the safety of others, exemplifying these qualities in her final moments.
The incident occurred shortly before 10:30 p.m. when Officer Craven stopped to assist a motorist involved in a rollover crash on the eastbound side of I-8 near Fairmount Avenue. While outside her patrol vehicle, she was struck by a Toyota Camry driven by a 38-year-old man from La Mesa. Both Officer Craven and the driver of the overturned vehicle, 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris, died at the scene. The driver of the Camry was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Several other individuals involved in the series of crashes sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
In honor of Officer Craven’s service, a law enforcement procession was held, with police personnel from various agencies accompanying her to El Camino Memorial Park in Sorrento Valley. The La Mesa Police Department expressed deep condolences to her family and friends, stating, “We grieve with you, and we will stand with you in the days and years to come.” Governor Gavin Newsom also expressed sorrow over her death, noting, “Officer Craven served her community with pride and dedication.” The La Mesa Police Department has requested the community to keep Officer Craven, her family, and the department in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Background
Officer Craven graduated from Summit High School in Bend, Oregon, in 2019. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Loyola Marymount University, where she was also a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Before joining the La Mesa Police Department, she worked as a childcare provider and an investigations intern. Her father, David Craven, described her as having a goal that “seemed impossible” but she “pushed right through it, became respected.” He added that she loved getting up to go to work and was excited to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Officer Lauren Craven?
Officer Lauren Craven was a 25-year-old police officer with the La Mesa Police Department in California. She was a native of Bend, Oregon, and had been serving in the patrol division since February 2024.
What happened to Officer Craven?
On October 20, 2025, Officer Craven was assisting at the scene of a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 8 in San Diego County when she was struck and killed by a vehicle. Both she and the driver of the overturned vehicle, 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris, died at the scene.
What is known about the driver who struck Officer Craven?
The driver of the vehicle that struck Officer Craven was a 38-year-old man from La Mesa. He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation into the incident.
What has been done to honor Officer Craven?
A law enforcement procession was held in honor of Officer Craven, with police personnel from various agencies accompanying her to El Camino Memorial Park in Sorrento Valley. The La Mesa Police Department has expressed deep condolences to her family and friends and has requested the community to keep Officer Craven, her family, and the department in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Officer’s Name | Lauren Craven |
| Age | 25 |
| Hometown | Bend, Oregon |
| Department | La Mesa Police Department |
| Incident Date | October 20, 2025 |
| Location of Incident | Interstate 8, San Diego County, California |
| Cause of Death | Struck by a vehicle while assisting at a crash scene |
| Driver’s Arrest | 38-year-old man from La Mesa arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence |
| Memorial Service | Law enforcement procession to El Camino Memorial Park in Sorrento Valley |
| Community Request | La Mesa Police Department requests the community to keep Officer Craven, her family, and the department in their thoughts and prayers |
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