SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — A young deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department was killed in an off-duty crash.
Deputy Daniel V. Chavira, 21, died on May 19 following a three-vehicle collision on San Francisquito Canyon Road, KABC reports. He was airlifted to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Chavira had been with the department for just over a year, having graduated from Academy Class 476 on May 2, 2024. He was assigned to the North County Correctional Facility.
In a statement, Sheriff Robert Luna said the department is “heartbroken by the tragic loss of one of our own, who was taken from us far 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.”
Chavira came from a family deeply rooted in law enforcement. His father, Rodrigo Valencia, and his two brothers — including Deputy Rene Valencia-Chavira, who is assigned to Lancaster Station — survive him. His wife, Deputy Crystal Valencia, works at San Fernando Court. His sister, Detective Nancy Alcaraz, and her husband, Deputy Martin Alcaraz, are both assigned to the Palmdale Station.
“Though his watch ended too soon, his legacy of service will live on through those who loved him and continue the mission,” the sheriff’s department said in a statement.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances of the crash.
LASD officials said they are reviewing the deputy’s work schedule to determine whether he was commuting to or from duty at the time of the crash.
