Family members, friends and colleagues of the La Mesa Police Department mourning the loss of 25 year old Officer Lauren Craven who was fatally struck and killed by a suspected DUI driver on the I-8 Freeway on October 20. Officer Craven was the first death of the La Mesa Police Department making goodbyes even harder to say. According to her father David Craven, Lauren should have had many more years, and while her death deeply saddens him, he is trying to focus on the positives by remembering the impact she had on her community.

Lauren Craven was described as an officer who cared deeply about her partners, her community and the badge she wore. She was also known for her way of calming others in tense situations, making others feel seen, respected and safe.

Prior to joining the La Mesa Police Department in February 2024, Craven grew up in Bend, Oregon and attended college at Loyola Marymount University, graduating in 2023.

A motorcade was held in her honor just a few days after her tragic passing, extending from the Coroner’s Office in Kearny Mesa to Skyline Church in La Mesa, where a pair of fire trucks had extended their ladders with a flag hanging below for the hearse carrying the body of Officer Craven to pass under.

Hundreds of law enforcement agencies from San Diego County, state and across the nation were also in attendance, saluting Craven’s flag-covered casket as it passed by while mournful bagpipes played in the distance.

Officer Lauren Craven will not be forgotten by those who serve San Diego County, California and the United States in uniform. 25-year-old La Mesa Officer Lauren Craven is survived by her mother and younger sister.

You can support the Craven family by donating to the Fund A Hero fundraiser or by purchasing a t-shirt or wristband from The Relentless Defender which plans to donate 100% of the proceeds to the Craven family.

To learn more about her life and service click here.