Flags at the California State Capitol and the Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff in honor of LAPD Sgt. Shiou Deng, who was struck and killed early Monday morning, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced.
Authorities said Deng came upon a recent collision on the 405 Freeway near Moraga Drive around 2 a.m. and stopped with his lights on to help.
“He exited from his police vehicle and as he approached the crash site, he was struck from the rear by oncoming traffic,” LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said during a news conference later in the morning.
“He was transported to UCLA Medical Center, and despite their valiant efforts, he did not make it. He passed sometime this morning,” McDonnell said.
Deng joined the LAPD more than 26 years ago. He spent 17 years in the department’s Mental Evaluation Unit, which handles calls involving people in mental health crises. He was promoted to sergeant two years ago and most recently served in the West Los Angeles Division.
He is survived by his wife and parents.
“Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the loss of Sergeant Deng, who dedicated more than 26 years to serving the Los Angeles community with pride and purpose,” Newsom said in a statement. “We join his family, friends, and fellow officers in mourning and in honoring his memory. May his service never be forgotten.”
