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A tragic series of collisions on Interstate 8 near Grantville claimed the lives of 25-year-old La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven and 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris on Monday night. The accident occurred as Officer Craven was assisting victims from an earlier crash, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Authorities said the initial collision involved two vehicles, one of which overturned in the eastbound lanes of I-8. Morris, who was inside the overturned vehicle, was fatally injured. Officer Craven, who was on duty at the time, stopped her patrol car, radioed for backup, and began rendering aid to those involved.
While she was assisting the victims, another vehicle struck the crash scene, hitting Officer Craven and several of the cars involved. A fifth vehicle then collided with the wreckage, adding to the devastation. Several people were transported to nearby hospitals with injuries.
Remembering Officer Lauren Craven
The La Mesa Police Department (LMPD) described Officer Craven as a “courageous, young officer” whose actions in her final moments reflected her unwavering commitment to service. Craven joined the department in February 2024 and quickly earned a reputation for her compassion, courage, and professionalism.
Her father, David Craven, said his daughter’s journey to law enforcement was one of determination and purpose. After experiencing personal trauma in her early twenties, she decided to dedicate her life to protecting others. Her father remembers her telling him that she wanted “to be there for anybody in trouble that needs me.”
Chief of Police Ray Sweeney shared a message Craven had written during her hiring process:
“It has always been my passion to serve others, and there has never been a doubt in my mind being a law enforcement officer is what I was meant to do.”
Governor Gavin Newsom also honored her sacrifice, ordering flags at the State Capitol to be flown at half-staff. “Officer Craven served her community with pride and dedication,” Newsom said. “Jennifer and I are heartbroken by her loss and the significant impact her passing leaves on the larger San Diego community.”
Officer Craven’s death marks the first line-of-duty loss in the La Mesa Police Department’s 105-year history. She is survived by her parents, David and Karen, her sister Margot, and her partner Miles.
The Investigation Continues
CHP Captain Reggie Williams said the fatal incident involved five vehicles in total. The initial crash caused a rollover that led to secondary impacts when passing drivers struck the wreckage. Officer Craven was hit while assisting those at the scene, and the sequence of collisions remains under investigation.
Authorities have not yet determined whether speed, distraction, or other factors contributed to the crashes.
Honoring Service, Seeking Safety, and the Road Ahead
For the La Mesa community, the loss of Officer Craven is profound, a reminder of the daily risks first responders take to keep others safe. Her courage and compassion, even in her final moment, reflect the best of what it means to serve.
“First responders put their lives on the line every day to help others, and when tragedies like this occur, it deeply affects the entire community,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Our hearts go out to Officer Craven’s family, her fellow officers, and the loved ones of all who were impacted by this devastating event. Our firm remains committed to helping families find answers, accountability, and justice after preventable roadway tragedies.”
Singleton Schreiber has represented many families across California who have lost loved ones or suffered catastrophic injuries in traffic incidents. If you or a loved one has been affected by a fatal crash or serious injury, contact Singleton Schreiber today for a free consultation. Nothing can undo the loss of life, but the firm’s compassionate attorneys can help you seek justice.
