Officer David C. Schmid, 34, Los Angeles Police Dept., died in the line-of-duty on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1992, in Palmdale as a result of an on-duty traffic accident while riding his motorcycle to work.

Schmid, who celebrated his 34th birthday on Nov. 19, was appointed to the department on March 5, 1984. He worked at the LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division.

Schmid was killed when a ’91 Toyota Camry driven by Denise Elletson made a left turn in front of him. He collided with the vehicle, was ejected, and struck the curb suffering a broken neck, arm, and other injuries. He was taken to the Palmdale Medical Center where he died eight hours later.

Thousands of people including officers from law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California attended funeral services for Schmid, which were held on Dec. 22 at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.

Numerous police cars were included in the procession to the Eternal Valley Cemetery where he was buried.

Survivors include his wife, Teresa, who was pregnant; his mother, LaMoine Schmid; father David Schmid; stepmother Linda Schmid; and stepdaughter, Tiffany Jansen.