LASD deputy, 21, killed in multi-vehicle crash in Santa Clarita

21-year-old cop dies in crash after double-shift

An off-duty LA County deputy, identified as Daniel V. Chavira, died during a three-vehicle collision in Santa Clarita. FOX 11's crews were told Chavira had just completed a double shift and was on his way home when the crash happened.

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is grieving one of their own after a young deputy died in a multi-vehicle collision in Santa Clarita.

What we know:

The crash happened on Monday, May 19 around 3:17 p.m. on San Francisquito Canyon south of Dry Gulch.

Officials said the off-duty 21-year-old deputy, identified as Daniel V. Chavira, was heading home after completing a double shift at North County Correctional Facility in the Castaic area, when he was involved in a three-car accident.

Deputy Chavira was airlifted to Henry Mayo Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Three others were also taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

21-year-old sheriff's deputy killed in crash

A deadly crash has shaken the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Deputy killed in crash in Santa Clarita

An LA County deputy who just got off work, was killed during a multi-vehicle crash in Santa Clarita Monday afternoon.

Dig deeper:

While the cause of the crash is unknown, sources told FOX 11's Gina Silva that Chavira had worked from 10 p.m. Sunday to 2 p.m. Monday. Deputies we spoke with said this is the latest example of a dangerous pattern. Many are speaking out about forced overtime, saying it's a major factor in creating dangerous situations, low morale, and even several suicides in the department.

Officials say the young deputy joined the department on May 2, 2024. After completing the academy, he was assigned to the North County Correctional Facility in Castaic.

What we don't know:

The California Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash.

LASD mourns loss of deputy killed in crash

Dozens of LA County deputies gathered at Henry Mayo Hospital in Santa Clarita to mourn the passing of a 21-year-old deputy who died earlier in the day during a multi-vehicle crash.

More about Deputy Chavira

Dig deeper:

Deputy Daniel Chavira

The fallen deputy is survived by his father, Rodrigo Valencia, his two brothers, Rodrigo Valencia Jr. and Deputy Rene Valencia-Chavira, who works at Lancaster Station, and his wife Deputy Crystal Valencia, who works at San Fernando Court. His sister, Detective Nancy Alcaraz and her husband, Deputy Martin Alcaraz, both work at the Palmdale Station.

What they're saying:

Sheriff Robert Luna issued a statement saying, "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of one of our own, who was taken from us too soon. Our deputy dedicated his life to the service and safety of others both in and out of uniform. His commitment to public safety was not just a job - it was who he was. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all who knew him."

Dozens of deputies gathered at the hospital to honor the fallen deputy. A procession was held as his body was transported from Santa Clarita to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner in downtown.