California Police Officer Fatally Struck While Aiding Stranded Motorist

Los Angeles, October 18, 2025 — A California police officer was tragically killed late Friday night after being struck by a vehicle while stopping to assist a stranded driver along a busy highway, authorities confirmed early Saturday.

The incident occurred just after 11 p.m. on Interstate 5 near the city of Santa Clarita, when the officer, identified as Sergeant Daniel Morales, a 12-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol (CHP), noticed a disabled vehicle on the shoulder and pulled over to help.

According to the CHP, as Morales exited his patrol car and approached the stranded vehicle, another car traveling at high speed veered toward the shoulder and struck him. Despite immediate efforts by paramedics and fellow officers, Morales was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver who hit the officer remained on-site and is cooperating with investigators. CHP officials said that impairment does not appear to be a factor at this stage, but the investigation remains ongoing.

“Sergeant Morales gave his life in service to others,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray in a statement. “He stopped to help someone in need — an act that reflects the very best of law enforcement and of humanity. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this devastating time.”

Traffic on the interstate was closed for several hours overnight as accident investigators processed the scene and collected evidence. The stranded driver, who had pulled over due to engine trouble, was not injured.

Sergeant Morales is survived by his wife and two young children. A memorial service is expected to be held later this week, with officers from across the state planning to attend in his honor.

The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by first responders and the importance of California’s “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to slow down or switch lanes when emergency vehicles are stopped on the roadside.