A motorcycle officer from the Manhattan Beach Police Department tragically lost his life in a multi-vehicle crash on the northbound San Diego (405) Freeway in the Carson area on Wednesday.
The California Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred around 5:15 a.m. at Del Amo Boulevard. Officer Chad Swanson, a 35-year-old 13-year veteran, was taken to the hospital where he unfortunately died. Lieutenant Kelly Benjamin of the Manhattan Beach police stated that Swanson was married and had three young sons.
All northbound lanes were closed during the investigation, causing a significant traffic backup on the busy freeway. Caltrans indicated that the lanes remained blocked until approximately 3:50 p.m.
The City of Manhattan Beach revealed that Swanson was on his way to work when the accident occurred.
According to the CHP, the crash involved three other vehicles. The driver of one of those vehicles may have been speeding and made an unsafe lane change, resulting in a collision with another car. This caused one of the vehicles to veer out of control and collide with Officer Swanson’s motorcycle.
Swanson was knocked off his motorcycle and suffered fatal injuries. He was transported to Harbor UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, where he was pronounced dead. Another person involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and was also taken to a hospital.
All other motorists involved in the incident remained at the scene and cooperated with the CHP’s investigation.
The circumstances surrounding which vehicle struck Officer Swanson were unclear.
Chief Rachel Johnson of the Manhattan Beach Police Department mentioned that Swanson had been part of the force for 13 years and became a motorcycle officer in 2017. Before that, he worked as a civilian parking enforcement employee at the Hawthorne Police Department.
“Chad lived a life of service to the community,” Chief Johnson said during a press conference. She shared a heartfelt story of Swanson’s dedication to his work, particularly his love for interacting with children at events.
“Chad was a remarkable individual who brought light into every room he entered,” Chief Johnson added. “His infectious smile and laughter touched everyone who knew him.”
The chief expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and fellow law enforcement agencies. While the Manhattan Beach officers mourned, neighboring agencies stepped in to assist with necessary duties.
Mayor Richard Montgomery of Manhattan Beach issued a statement, expressing the community’s deep sadness over the loss of an officer who dedicated his career to keeping residents safe.
“Our beloved officer embodied bravery, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty,” Mayor Montgomery said.
“Our tight-knit law enforcement family and the community he served will forever feel the void left by his absence,” Chief Johnson remarked.
Officer Benjamin, struggling to hold back tears, stated that Swanson loved being a motorcycle officer.
She also shared that Swanson was present at the 2017 Route 91 Harvest Country Music Festival in Las Vegas when a gunman opened fire. Swanson, despite being injured, assisted several concert-goers in escaping from the danger.
The City of Manhattan Beach assured the public that they would provide support and assistance to Swanson’s family during this difficult time. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance from other local agencies.
A somber procession escorted Officer Swanson’s body to the county Medical Examiner’s Office later in the morning.
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