BRENTWOOD, CALIFORNIA — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on the southbound 405 Freeway in Brentwood resulted in the deaths of two people, including an LAPD sergeant. The incident occurred during the evening rush hour on Thursday, June 22, 2025, and has left the community in shock.
The Incident: Chaos on the 405 Freeway
The accident took place around 6:15 p.m. on June 22, when a multi-vehicle crash involving at least four vehicles occurred on the southbound 405 Freeway, near the Sunset Boulevard exit in Brentwood. The crash caused significant traffic delays and resulted in a massive response from Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers.
According to authorities, the collision involved several cars, including one LAPD vehicle, which was reportedly driven by Sgt. Mark H. Walters, a 17-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department. Sgt. Walters, along with another individual who was in a separate vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have confirmed that Walters had been responding to an emergency situation at the time of the crash.
The identities of the second victim, who was not an officer, have not yet been released. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with authorities working to determine whether weather conditions, speeding, or any other factors contributed to the collision.
The Investigation: Cause of the Crash Still Unclear
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. While early reports suggest that the crash involved multiple vehicles, officials have yet to release any details about whether drugs or alcohol were involved. Investigators are reviewing nearby surveillance footage from traffic cameras to piece together the events that led to the deadly crash.
The scene of the crash was chaotic, with the freeway being completely shut down for several hours as investigators processed the scene and emergency responders worked to clear the wreckage. Authorities have urged commuters to avoid the area, as the freeway remained closed in both directions well into the evening.
Community Reacts: Mourning and Tribute for LAPD Sergeant
The news of Sgt. Walters’ death has deeply affected the Los Angeles Police Department and the entire Los Angeles community. Walters, a highly respected officer, had served with the department for nearly two decades.
“Sgt. Walters was a dedicated public servant who gave his life to protect the people of Los Angeles,” said Chief of Police Michael Moore. “This is an incredibly tragic loss for the LAPD, and we stand by his family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult time. We will make sure his legacy is honored, and we will do everything we can to support his family.”
The LAPD has announced plans for a memorial service to honor Sgt. Walters, who leaves behind a wife and two children. A GoFundMe page has been set up by his family to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for his family during this challenging time.
Traffic Disruptions and Delays
The crash on the 405 Freeway caused severe traffic disruptions in the Brentwood area, with multiple lanes closed for several hours as investigators worked at the scene. Commuters heading southbound were advised to use alternative routes, including the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) or Sepulveda Boulevard, while the freeway was cleared and reopened.
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) has been working alongside CHP to direct traffic and provide real-time updates for drivers. Authorities are advising drivers to remain patient as cleanup efforts continue and the investigation unfolds.
What’s Next: Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and officials are working to gather more information. Once the investigation is complete, the CHP will provide further updates on the cause of the crash and whether any criminal charges will be filed. Sgt. Walters’ family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they process their immense loss.
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on the tragedy involving Sgt. Walters? Have you or someone you know experienced delays or disruptions due to the crash? Share your thoughts in the comments below on RidgecrestPact.org.
