The fatal collision occurred around 10:35 p.m. on October on the eastbound side of I-8 near Waring Road.
San Diego, CA – The authorities have released the identity of a La Mesa police officer who was killed alongside a civilian in a tragic chain-reaction San Diego late Monday night.
The County Medical Examiner identified the deceased officer as Lauren Craven, a 25-year-old member of the La Mesa Police Department.
The fatal collision occurred around 10:35 p.m. on October on the eastbound side of I-8 near Waring Road.
Authorities say the incident began when a vehicle traveling eastbound lost control and overturned, coming to rest in the roadway. Moments later, the disabled vehicle was struck by a second car.
Officer Lauren Craven was on duty at the time and had stopped to render aid. After calling for backup, she exited her patrol vehicle to assist the individuals involved in the initial crash. Tragically, while doing so, she was struck by a third vehicle approaching the scene.
A fourth car then collided with the already disabled vehicles, further complicating the chaotic scene.
Officer Craven and one of the drivers involved in the crash died from their injuries. Craven was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders due to blunt force trauma. Several other people were injured and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Their conditions have not been disclosed.
All eastbound lanes of Interstate 8 were closed for several hours between College Avenue and Fairmount Avenue as investigators worked to determine the exact cause of the crash.
The California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation.