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NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalJune 29, 2026United States

Hawthorne man charged in 2025 freeway crash that killed LAPD officer and motorist

A Hawthorne man has been arrested and charged with murder following a 2025 freeway crash that resulted in the deaths of an LAPD sergeant and a stranded motorist. Prosecutors allege the driver was traveling at excessive speeds and has a history of reckless driving citations.

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Why It Matters

The case involves potential life sentences for the defendant and highlights ongoing legal proceedings regarding traffic safety and officer-involved fatalities on Los Angeles freeways.

Key Facts

  • Mario Joseph Bickham was arrested on murder charges for a June 2025 crash on the 405 Freeway.
  • The crash resulted in the deaths of LAPD Sgt. Shiou Deng and motorist Jesus Garcia.
  • CHP investigation determined Bickham was driving at over 112 mph at the time of the collision.
  • Sgt. Deng was killed while assisting Garcia, whose vehicle was disabled by an unidentified hit-and-run driver.
  • DA Nathan Hochman alleges Bickham has a 15-year history of reckless driving and failed to appear for a May 2025 court date regarding a 105 mph speeding citation.
  • Bickham is currently held on a $2 million bond, though the DA's office requested $4 million.
  • If convicted, Bickham faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life in state prison for each victim.
  • Thirty-three vehicles safely passed the scene after Sgt. Deng activated his emergency lights before the collision occurred.

Who's Mentioned

organizationLos Angeles Police Department“Employer of the deceased officer.”personJim McDonnell“LAPD Chief.”organizationCalifornia Highway Patrol“Investigating agency for the crash.”personNathan Hochman“LA County District Attorney prosecuting the case.”personChris Margaris“Chief of the CHP Southern Division.”personMario Joseph Bickham“Defendant charged with murder in the freeway crash.”personShiou Deng“Deceased LAPD Sergeant killed while assisting a motorist.”personJesus Garcia“Deceased motorist killed in the crash.”