LOS ANGELES, CA — June 17, 2025 — A heartbreaking crash on the 101 Freeway in North Hollywood has claimed the life of off-duty Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Marcos Pena Jr., a young law enforcement officer remembered by colleagues and family for his integrity, dedication, and kind heart. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 2:17 a.m. near Tujunga Avenue, leaving the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and the wider community reeling in grief.
A Tragic Morning on the 101
Authorities say Deputy Pena, 27, was driving his personal vehicle eastbound on the 101 Freeway when the deadly crash occurred. Preliminary reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) indicate that Pena’s vehicle collided with another car under circumstances still under investigation. The crash caused extensive damage, and responding officers and paramedics arrived to find Pena unresponsive. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. It is not yet clear whether drugs, alcohol, speed, or distracted driving played a role. Investigators with the CHP’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team are working to piece together the chain of events that led to the devastating incident.
Remembering Deputy Marcos Pena Jr.
Deputy Pena had been a rising figure within the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), where he served with pride and distinction. Known to friends and coworkers as “Junior,” Pena was praised for his strong work ethic, calm demeanor, and unshakable commitment to service.
Sheriff Robert Luna issued a public statement Tuesday morning:
“The LASD family is heartbroken. Deputy Marcos Pena Jr. served our county with honor and compassion. His dedication to public safety and his bright future make this loss even more painful. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow deputies who are grieving today.”
Pena joined the department just three years ago but had already earned the respect of many, both within and outside the agency. A graduate of the LASD Academy, Pena was often seen volunteering for extra shifts and community outreach programs. Colleagues described him as humble, reliable, and full of promise.
“He was the kind of deputy you hoped would show up to your call — calm, level-headed, and ready to help,” said a fellow deputy from Pena’s station. “And off-duty, he was a brother to us. Always smiling, always lifting people up.”
Community Mourning and Tribute
As news of the tragedy spread, flags at LASD facilities were lowered to half-staff, and black mourning bands were placed over badges. Vigils are already being planned, including a candlelight gathering near the crash site at Tujunga Avenue, where fellow deputies, friends, and family are expected to pay tribute to Pena’s memory.
Dozens of community members, including those who had never met him, took to social media to offer condolences, sharing heartfelt messages under hashtags like #RestInPeaceDeputyPena and #LASDStrong. Many posts shared stories of positive encounters with Pena during his short but impactful career.
Local leaders also voiced their sorrow, with Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger stating,
“This is a tragic reminder of how fragile life is. Deputy Pena represented the best of our law enforcement community — dedicated, kind, and committed to making a difference. We honor his service and stand with his loved ones during this painful time.”
A Life Cut Short, But Never Forgotten
At just 27, Marcos Pena Jr. had his whole life ahead of him — a career that was only beginning to bloom and a future filled with hope and ambition. In his free time, he was known to mentor youth, attend church with his family, and participate in fitness competitions with his colleagues. He had recently expressed interest in pursuing a leadership role within the department.
Pena leaves behind a grieving family, including his parents, younger siblings, and fiancée, with whom he had been planning a wedding for the following year.
A procession to honor his life and service is being planned by the LASD, with full law enforcement honors. Details will be announced in the coming days.
Investigation Ongoing
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area around 2:15–2:30 a.m. on the eastbound 101 near Tujunga Avenue is encouraged to contact the CHP West Valley Office.
As the investigation unfolds and tributes continue to pour in, one thing is certain: Deputy Marcos Pena Jr. will not be forgotten. His service, his spirit, and the lives he touched will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
💙 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Rest in peace, Deputy Pena. Your watch has ended, but your legacy endures.
Leave a Reply