A tragic incident unfolded in Riverside County over the weekend, resulting in the untimely death of a San Diego police officer shortly after being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Lawrence Orso, a 46-year-old resident of Murrieta and a 15-year veteran of the SDPD, was found unresponsive in the parking lot outside the Cois Byrd Detention Center in French Valley.
Despite efforts to revive him, Orso was pronounced dead at the scene. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has stated that there is no indication of foul play in this unfortunate event. SDPD Acting Lt. Travis Easter expressed his condolences, mentioning that Orso had experienced a medical emergency leading to his passing.
Orso’s family is currently in the thoughts and prayers of the SDPD during this challenging period. The department is working closely with the Riverside Sheriff’s Department to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding Orso’s death. According to Riverside County jail records, Orso was taken into custody by the California Highway Patrol in the early hours of Saturday near Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Interstate 215. Specific details regarding the arrest remain undisclosed.
Shockingly, Orso was released from custody approximately an hour and a half before his tragic demise. The timeline of events leading up to his death raises questions and concerns about the handling of the situation. The SDPD and the Riverside Sheriff’s Department are striving to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking incident.
The loss of a dedicated officer like Lawrence Orso has undoubtedly shaken the law enforcement community and the residents of San Diego. As the investigation unfolds, more details regarding the events of that fateful night are expected to come to light. The SDPD will continue to support Orso’s family and colleagues through this difficult period of mourning and uncertainty.