LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles community is mourning the loss of LAPD Sergeant Shiou Deng, a 26-year veteran of the force, who was fatally struck by a vehicle while assisting at the scene of a separate crash on the 405 Freeway early Monday morning. The incident occurred near Getty Center Drive in the Brentwood area, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from city and state leaders.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Sergeant Deng was traveling southbound on the 405 Freeway around 2:00 a.m. on June 23 when he observed a serious traffic collision ahead. He activated his patrol vehicle’s rear amber lights to alert oncoming traffic and exited his vehicle to assist those involved in the crash. As he approached the scene on foot, Deng was struck from behind by another vehicle.
Emergency responders from the California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived promptly, transporting Deng to UCLA Medical Center. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the pickup truck involved in the initial crash was pronounced dead at the scene, while another individual was hospitalized with injuries.
Sergeant Deng, 53, dedicated over 26 years to the LAPD, including 17 years in the department’s Mental Evaluation Unit, which specializes in responding to incidents involving individuals experiencing mental health crises. Two years prior, he was promoted to sergeant and assigned to the West Los Angeles Division.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell praised Deng’s commitment to public service, stating, “He was out there caring for others, putting their safety before his own. He is somebody that we will all look to as an inspiration as we carry on the mission.” Colleagues remembered Deng as exceptionally funny and caring, someone who consistently worked to improve situations for both his fellow officers and the community.
In honor of Sergeant Deng’s service and sacrifice, Governor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space to be flown at half-staff. “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. We join his family, friends, and fellow officers in mourning, and in honoring his memory. May his service never be forgotten,” Newsom said in a statement.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also expressed her condolences, ordering flags above city buildings to be lowered to half-staff. “This is a sad day for our city,” Bass said. “The men and women of LAPD put their lives on the line for Angelenos each and every day. Sgt. Deng served L.A. for more than 25 years. His last act was one of service—putting the safety and wellbeing of others above all else.”
The fatal incident led to the closure of all southbound lanes on the 405 Freeway, with northbound lanes temporarily closed for investigation. Traffic was diverted to the 101 Freeway until the scene was cleared.
Sergeant Deng is survived by his wife and parents. Details regarding memorial services and opportunities for the public to pay their respects will be shared in the coming days. The LAPD has requested privacy for Deng’s family as they navigate this painful loss.