MBPD Officer Dies in 405 Crash
Oct 04, 2023 10:58AM ● By Mb News Staff
A broken-hearted Manhattan Beach is grieving the death of Manhattan Beach Police Department officer Chad Swanson, 35, who was killed in an accident on the Northbound 405 early on Wednesday morning.
The Swanson family. Photo via PORAC.
Photo via MBPDAccording to South Bay Scanner, the accident occurred shortly before 5:15 a.m. CHP was notified about a vehicle/motorcycle crash on the northbound 405 at Del Amo Blvd. The accident involved as many as four cars. All of the drivers stayed at the scene, according to CHP.
When first responders reached Swanson, they peformed CPR, but tragically, Swanson died at the hospital from his injuries.
A solemn procession of police cars accompanied the vehicle driving Swanson to the coroner's office.
The city of Manhattan Beach released the following statements by city officials Wednesday afternoon:
"We are all in shock after this tragic accident. Officer Swanson was a hero. While off duty in 2017, Officer Swanson was wounded in the Route 91 Harvest Country Music Festival mass shooting in Las Vegas," said Mayor Richard Montgomery. "He served as a hero that day in 2017 and was personally responsible for saving several lives, despite suffering his own injuries."
"Officer Swanson was a joy to work with every single day," said Chief of Police Rachel Johnson. "He was a true hero, always positive, and brought an energy to the police force that will truly be missed. To honor his legacy, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of public service, integrity and unity that defines our profession."
Earlier on Wednesday, before Swanson had been identified, Manhattan Beach released the following statement:
"'The entire Manhattan Beach community is mourning the loss of an officer who dedicated his career to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents," said Mayor Richard Montgomery. "His fearless contributions to our community and beyond were marked by bravery, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty.'
"'Our beloved officer exemplified courage, and his impact reached far beyond the precinct, touching the lives of those who had the privilege of working alongside him," said MBPD Chief Rachel Johnson. "His absence leaves an indelible void with our tight-knit law enforcement family and the community he served.'...
"The Manhattan Beach Police Department is working closely with the family to provide support and assistance in the face of this tragic loss.
"In the wake of this loss, our local agency partners will be assisting the Manhattan Beach Police Department and ensuring the continuity of public safety services.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the officer. We ask for respect and understanding during this period of grief and reflection."
