Los Angeles: On June 25, 2003, at about 7:30 p.m., two Los Angeles Police Department veteran Homicide Detectives were on duty and traveling in an unmarked police vehicle east bound on the 138 freeway 2 miles west of the 15 freeway.

A pickup truck that was being driven by 50 year old Joe Fernandez, who is a resident of Pinon Hills, was traveling west bound on the 138 freeway. Fernandez hit the detective’s vehicle head on when he tried to pass a big-rig truck. Fernandez was transported to a local hospital where he is to be released later today.

The driver, 49 year-old Detective Abiel Barron died at the scene and his partner 49 year-old Detective Andrew Teague was transported to a nearby hospital where he is listed in critical condition.

The California Highway Patrol is conducting the investigation, and will determine if criminal charges are to be filed.

Anyone requesting information is asked to contact the Northeast Area, Lieutenant Jorge Villegas at 213-485-2566.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Renee’ Montoya, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.