I had just seen Michael on Thursday afternoon when he was showing the guy who was to take his place on daywatch his route. He would always speak when he came into the office and if I was on the phone he would wave. I was shocked he hear of his passing. To his family, remember the good times and always tell others that you care about them, you never know if you will have the chance again. I will miss his, but I won't forget him.

— Hiawatha-WTD
September 22, 2008 at 10:11 a.m.

I worked with Pete for 4 years. He was always there for anyone at time of need. Janice, Alex and Lorie - Pete always talked about you and you can see how much he loved you and was so proud. Pete will be missed. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

— Bobbie
September 22, 2008 at 9:58 a.m.

Your passing came much too early for Nicki, Tina and all who loved and had the honor of knowing you and your family. Your beauty, caring, grace and song lives on in our hearts and thoughts.

— Bill & Kathy Weinstein
September 22, 2008 at 9:21 a.m.

To the Family of Beverly Mosley,
Beverly will be missed.

— Bruce Browning
September 22, 2008 at 9:16 a.m.

I'm reminded of the scene in the movie "Meet Joe Black" where Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt are walking up over the hill towards the end and Anthony pauses for a second and asks Brad Pitt, "Should I be afraid (of death)?" and Brad Pitt replies, "Not a man like you." I am certain that Mr Long felt the same way because he knew, just like the rest of us, exactly where he was going...to Heaven. Mr. Long was my English and Math teacher at Grace Brethren Jr. High from 1988-1991 and Mrs. Long was my 2nd Grade teacher at Indian Hills Christian Academy...my deepest sympathy goes out to the Long family in these sad times...Mr. Long will be forever missed, but we will see him again. Mr. Long, thank you for everything you taught me.

— Eli Khoury
about Paul Long
September 22, 2008 at 8:45 a.m.

May God give the Hefter family strength! I really didnt have the honor to meet Jacob, even though I attended the same high school. But I know how it feels to lose someone you love....although I attended PHS I also didn't have the chance to have Mrs. Hefter either...but i could say she was very popular..and know Im out here at LA High...so i still won't have the honor..but may God Bless You and your family...and now all we know is that Jacob is in a better place than us....up there with God...now who knows if he'll want to return...!...Im really sorry for the lose of Jacob!!!

— Yurika Reynoso
September 22, 2008 at 8:21 a.m.

people are hard headed and cant seem to read! its still speculation it has not been proven yet! open your two eyes!

— shawn
September 22, 2008 at 4:49 a.m.

I have read many nice comments about Ofcr DeSha, and regret I did not know her personally. My condolences and prayers go out to her family, coworkers, and friends. I recently graduated from the academy and have been so proud to be part of the Los Angeles Police Dept. It's really nice to hear about her professionalism and seriousness for the job. I can see why she had been promoted and well liked by others.

After learning so much about her, Ofcr DeSha gives hope and encouragement to other gay and lesbian law enforcement to be open about their lives at the workplace. In some ways, it's easier to be "in the closet", but overall, it's more difficult because you sit in silence as you hear comments from others about their husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, etc. It's amazing that still so many people don't realize you can't tell who is gay or lesbian by one's appearance.

Thank you, Ofcr DeSha, for being a role model for so many, and may God bless you and your family as the wonderful memories live on forever.

— LAPD Ofcr
September 22, 2008 at 3:13 a.m.

I was one of the lucky girls that knew Paul as my youth pastor over 10 years ago. I used to think that us five (consistent) girls in his youth group at Simi Valley (now Faith) Christian Church were very special to him, but after reading a few of these touching comments, I realized that MANY of the youth he worked with over the years felt the same way. I think this fact just speaks to the love he had for his work and youth as well as the strength of his ministry. I will always remember him the way I have always known him and saw him last; vibrant, happy and excited about life. Karen and Devin, you will be blessed for sharing this wonderful man with all of us, he will be missed, and you will always be in our thoughts. I love you.

— Kathryn Rosa Couch
about Paul Long
September 22, 2008 at 1:48 a.m.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of Paul. He was my teacher at Indian Hills Academy. Although I hadn't seen Paul and Karen in a while, the memories of my time at Indian Hills are all the richer because he is part of them. He was a true encourager who had the ability to make us all laugh. Thank you, Paul, for the time you invested in my life so many years ago. Our love and prayers go out to Karen and Devin. May the peace of God comfort you both.
The Millers

— Greg Miller
about Paul Long
September 21, 2008 at 11:51 p.m.


Keep in mind
  • The Times initially mispelled the name of Michael Hammersley and Beverly Mosley.
  • The coroner's office reported a 26th victim the afternoon of Sept. 15, but a few hours later said the tally was 25.

Chatsworth Metrolink Crash is the Los Angeles Times' database of fatalities from the Sept. 12, 2008, train collision.
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Latest Numbers

25 dead

135 injured

About the Data Desk

This page was created by the Data Desk, a team of reporters and Web developers at The Times.