UPDATE: A massive funeral procession for fallen La Mesa police Officer Lauren Craven is set to cause significant traffic disruptions on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The procession, involving over 700 vehicles, will depart from Snapdragon Stadium at approximately 7:30 a.m. and is expected to create major delays between Mission Valley and Rancho San Diego.
La Mesa Police officials have confirmed that the procession will include law enforcement personnel and family members only. The route will take the convoy onto northbound Interstate 15, then eastbound State Route 52, southbound State Route 125, and finally eastbound State Route 94. It will conclude at Skyline Church on Campo Road near Jamacha Boulevard.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid affected areas and utilize alternate routes. Access to SR-94 and SR-125 from Spring Street in La Mesa will be closed throughout the morning. “Motorists in these areas should expect road closures and major traffic delays throughout the morning,” stated La Mesa police Captain Katy Lynch in a news release.
The funeral service is scheduled to begin at the church at 10 a.m. Details regarding a livestream of the service are expected to be released soon. Officer Craven tragically lost her life in the line of duty last week when she was struck by a vehicle while responding to a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 8. In a heartbreaking twist, another driver involved in the initial crash, 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris, was also killed. The driver of the vehicle that struck Craven has since been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
In a show of support, the public is invited to a candlelight vigil this evening at the La Mesa Police Department headquarters at 8085 University Ave. The vigil will commence at 6:30 p.m. and will feature brief remarks, a moment of silence, and candle lighting. Candles will be provided for attendees.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, all eyes will be on the procession and the vigil, highlighting the profound impact of Officer Craven’s service.
