“While assisting the motorists, Officer Craven was struck by an oncoming vehicle. California Highway Patrol officers performed lifesaving efforts, but tragically, Officer Craven died at the scene,” the release said per PEOPLE.

The La Mesa Police Department confirmed the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post, noting that Officer Craven was on her way back to La Mesa from San Diego Central Jail when the tragic incident took place.

The La Mesa Police Force wrote:

“It is with deep sorrow that we share the tragic loss of La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven, who was killed in the line of duty late Monday night.”

“Officer Craven’s actions in