Jesus Garcia & Sgt. Shiou Deng – Heroes Lost on the 405 Freeway
LOS ANGELES, CA — The City of Angels is mourning two lives cut short in a devastating late-night crash on the 405 Freeway on June 23, 2025. Jesus Garcia, 34, and LAPD Sergeant Shiou Deng, 53, both tragically lost their lives while Garcia was receiving aid after a single-vehicle accident. Their deaths have left a community in profound sorrow—but also in awe of their courage and humanity.
⏱ Timeline of Events
- Shortly before 2:00 a.m. on June 23, Garcia’s Toyota pickup experienced a single-vehicle crash in the southbound lanes near Moraga Drive. He exited the vehicle and was standing near it.
- Sgt. Deng—traveling in his marked patrol vehicle—stopped and activated his emergency lights to assist Garcia.
- As Deng exited his car and approached the scene, a Nissan sedan driven by Mario Bickham struck both Deng and Garcia, fatally injuring them.
👮♂️ Sgt. Shiou Deng: A Life of Service
- Served with the LAPD for 26+ years, most notably 17 years in the Mental Evaluation Unit, helping those in crisis.
- Promoted to Sergeant two years ago and stationed with the West Los Angeles Division.
- Memorials described him as “funny, caring, always putting others first”—honored by a ceremonial procession, lowered flags, and solemn tributes from Mayor Bass and LAPD Chief McDonnell.
- Chief McDonnell said, “He died a hero… putting the safety and wellbeing of others above all else.”
👤 Jesus Garcia: A Kind Soul Remembered
- Identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
- Described by family and friends as a loving son, brother, uncle and friend, known for his kindness and warmth.
- A GoFundMe launched to cover funeral costs, emphasizing his positive impact in people’s lives. ()
🕯 Community Response & Memorials
- Southbound lanes of the 405 were closed for hours as emergency crews handled the scene.
- Flags across city buildings, including City Hall and the State Capitol, were ordered to half-staff in their honor.
- Both heroes were celebrated with a procession, candlelit vigils, and heartfelt tributes across Los Angeles.
💔 A Dual Tragedy, A Community United
This tragic event underscores both the randomness of tragedy and the depth of human courage and compassion. Sgt. Deng’s final moments embodied the selflessness expected of those sworn to protect and serve. Garcia’s death alongside him highlights the unpredictability of losing life—to malfunction or moment—when humanity shines brightest in crisis.
🙏 Honoring Their Legacies
- Sgt. Deng leaves behind a legacy of leadership, empathy, and dedication to community care—a beacon for future public servants.
- Jesus Garcia is remembered as a kind-hearted man whose generosity touched everyone around him.
📝 In Closing
As Los Angeles mourns, it also honors the self-sacrifice of two lives whose paths converged in tragedy. Their memory serves as a reminder to cherish every moment, protect each other, and act with compassion—even in the darkest of circumstances.