Officer David W. Copleman was killed during the pursuit of a speeding motorcyclist on State Route 126 in east Ventura County. Copleman initiated the pursuit of a speeding motorcycle and was joined by two Ventura sheriff’s units and a Fillmore P.D. unit. All four law enforcement units had lights and sirens activated when an oncoming van swerved into opposing traffic lanes to avoid rear-ending another vehicle and struck the CHP unit head-on. Copleman, 27, died at the scene and the van occupants sustained major injuries. The speeding motorcyclist was stopped and arrested by Fillmore police on suspicion of vehicular man slaughter and reckless driving causing injury.

After graduating from the CHP Academy, Copleman served in the Ventura area. He had been with the department for two and a half years.

Funeral services were conducted April 12 at Joshua Memorial Cemetery.

Copleman is survived by his wife, Arlene, and children, LaJetta, 9, and Brandon, 4.