Compton Sheriff's Sergeant Dies After On-Duty Crash
COMPTON (CBSLA.com) — A Compton sheriff's sergeant died at a hospital Monday after a crash in his patrol car.
The crash was reported shortly after 5 a.m. near Alameda and Myrrh, according to the Compton Sheriff's Department.
Authorities said Sgt. Al Lopez, a 26-year veteran of the department, was taken to Francis Medical Center in Lynwood, where he later died.
CBS2's Kara Finnstrom reported Lopez appears to have died as a result of a medical emergency.
He is survived by his wife and two adult children.
The loss comes just weeks after Sgt. Steve Owen was shot and killed in the duty.
On Monday, Sheriff's Department played a tribute video for Owen during its 34th Annual Valor Awards Ceremony in Exposition Park.
A preliminary investigation revealed the sergeant had jumped into his vehicle to assist in the pursuit of a stolen gray Honda Civic that carried two occupants.
The pursuit was ended due to rainy weather and high speeds.
The suspect vehicle evaded authorities. No arrests were made.
