With hugs, tears and broken hearts, officers from the La Mesa Police Department gathered outside the Pink Rose Café on La Mesa Boulevard to honor the memory of fallen officer Lauren Craven.
“Lauren is light … she shined bright in our department,” La Mesa police chief Ray Sweeney said.
The 25-year-old officer was killed when the driver of a Toyota Camry suspected of being under the influence crashed into her while she was rendering aid after a crash on Interstate 8 near Fairmont Avenue late Monday.
“Just from the day I pinned the badge on her, the smile that was on her face even in the interviews,” Sweeney said. “She’s an amazing person. She’s an amazing police officer, so dedicated and loving to this community. The compassion and the empathy that she had that she had is what we’re all about.”
On Friday, the owner of Pink Rose Café held a vigil and fundraiser in her honor.
“Just like the police department supports us, we want them to know that we support them, and 100 % of the proceeds today will be donated to the family,” said cafe owner Nadia Zamora.
“I think we really come together when times are tough, and this is just another example of that,” Bonnie Hayman said.
Sweeney said the community’s support has been overwhelming.
“It means the world, because we’re hurting, and our community is here, and when our community is hurting, we’re there,” Sweeney said.
Craven is the first officer the La Mesa Police Department has lost in the line of duty.
Sweeney said her legacy has marked their hearts forever.
“Lauren will never be forgotten, ever,” Sweeney said. “We look forward to memorializing her all the time to keep her memory alive.”.
Funeral services for Craven will be held on Tuesday.