On the night of Monday, October 20, 2025, around 10:30 p.m., Officer Lauren Craven, age 25, of the La Mesa Police Department, was tragically struck and killed while assisting at the scene of a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 8 near Fairmount Avenue in San Diego County, California.

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.