Law enforcement officials in Los Angeles County are grappling with the tragic deaths of four members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD), who were found dead in what appears to be unrelated suicides. This shocking series of incidents occurred over a 24-hour period earlier this week, leaving law enforcement officers statewide stunned.

According to KTLA, the first victim was discovered on Monday morning in Valencia at approximately 10:30 a.m. The second death occurred in Lancaster at 12:53 p.m., followed by a third death later that day in Stevenson Ranch at 5:40 p.m. On Tuesday morning, detectives responded to the fourth victim in Pomona at around 7:30 a.m.

While the LASD has not officially disclosed the identity of the officers, two of the victims have been identified as Cmdr. Darren Harris, a 25-year career veteran, and retired Sgt. Greg Hovland, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna expressed deep sadness about the tragic deaths, emphasizing the impact it has had on the entire department. "We are stunned to learn of these deaths, sending shockwaves of emotions throughout the department as we try and cope with the loss of not just one, but four beloved active and retired members of our department family," Luna said in a statement.

This devastating event highlights the struggles that law enforcement personnel face, both on and off the job. Retired Santa Monica police officer Cristina Coria underscored the importance of providing support to struggling officers, stating that many officers battle depression and various personal challenges.

"There are so many officers out there that are struggling with their identity, with finances, with relationship problems, with addictions… There are so many things going on, that our departments are not reaching out to them [struggling officers] enough," Coria told FOX 11 Los Angeles.

First responders often deal with job-related trauma, lack of public support, family or financial issues, and physical injuries sustained while on duty, as per FOX 11. The difficulties of receiving limited financial compensation or support from superiors, forced medical retirement, and a sense of lost identity after retiring can also contribute to their struggles.

Laura Linder, founder of the nonprofit Exclusively First Responders, and mother-in-law to a former LASD officer who died by suicide, emphasized the toll that daily job responsibilities take on officers' well-being.

Investigations into the deaths are ongoing, and the LASD has stated that they do not believe the incidents are connected. The department's Psychological Services Bureau and the Injury and Health Support Unit are providing support and resources to the families affected by these tragic events.

The LASD is still reeling from the recent loss of Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, who was fatally shot in Palmdale on September 16, 2023. Additionally, a recruit of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department passed away earlier this summer, further adding to the department's somber atmosphere.

As investigations continue, this heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the need for increased support and resources for law enforcement personnel facing mental health challenges.