A tragic accident on the 405 Freeway in Los Angeles resulted in the death of LAPD Sergeant Shiou Deng early Monday morning. The 26-year veteran was trying to assist motorists involved in a two-car crash when he was struck by oncoming traffic.
The collision occurred just after 2 a.m. near Moraga Drive. Sergeant Deng had parked his vehicle and stepped out to help when he was hit. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. One other person was also killed in the initial crash, but their identity has not yet been revealed.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell spoke at a news conference, praising Deng as a hero who prioritized the safety of others over his own. He highlighted Deng’s dedication, noting that he had spent much of his career in the Mental Evaluation Unit, where he worked closely with individuals in crisis.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed her condolences, stating that Deng’s sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the risks police officers face while serving the community. The accident caused a significant traffic jam, with all southbound lanes on the freeway closed for nearly 10 hours as investigators worked at the scene. The lanes were finally reopened around 12:30 p.m.
The loss of Sergeant Deng is felt deeply by his colleagues and the community he served. He is remembered not just for his role as a police officer, but for his commitment to helping the most vulnerable members of society.