URGENT UPDATE: A massive funeral procession for fallen La Mesa police Officer Lauren Craven is set to disrupt traffic significantly tomorrow morning, October 10, 2023. The procession, which will feature over 700 vehicles, is scheduled to depart from Snapdragon Stadium at approximately 7:30 a.m. and will include law enforcement officials and family members only.
Motorists should prepare for extensive traffic delays between Mission Valley and Rancho San Diego as the procession travels along major highways. The route will take vehicles onto northbound Interstate 15, then to eastbound State Route 52, southbound State Route 125, and finally eastbound State Route 94. The procession will conclude at Skyline Church on Campo Road near Jamacha Boulevard.
Authorities confirm that access to SR-94 and SR-125 from Spring Street in La Mesa will be closed throughout the procession. La Mesa Police Captain Katy Lynch has urged motorists in the area to seek alternate routes to avoid major disruptions: “Motorists in these areas should expect road closures and major traffic delays throughout the morning.”
The funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. at Skyline Church, with details on how to livestream the event expected shortly. Officer Craven tragically lost her life in the line of duty when she was struck by a vehicle while responding to a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 8 last week. In the same incident, another driver, 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris, was also killed. The driver of the vehicle that struck Craven has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
In a show of solidarity and support, members of the public are invited to attend a candlelight vigil tonight at La Mesa Police Department headquarters, located at 8085 University Ave. The vigil is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. and will include brief remarks, a moment of silence, and candlelight. Candles will be provided for attendees as the community comes together to honor Officer Craven’s sacrifice.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Share this information to help others plan their routes effectively.
