Mario Joseph Bickham, 36, of Hawthorne, faces two felony counts of second-degree murder following the June 2025 deaths of LAPD Sergeant Shiou Deng and Jesús Garcia on the 405 Freeway. Prosecutors allege Bickham was traveling at speeds exceeding 112 mph when he struck the vehicles near the Getty Center.
Bickham was arrested at his home on Monday, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. The charges stem from a collision that occurred on the southbound 405 Freeway near Bel Air last summer.
Sgt. Shiou Deng spent 17 years of his 26 1/2-year career serving in the LAPD Mental Evaluation Unit.
How did the fatal collision occur?
The crash took place on June 23, 2025, after Deng stopped his patrol vehicle to assist Jesús Garcia. Garcia had been the victim of a previous hit-and-run crash on the same freeway, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
Investigators stated that Deng activated his emergency lights to warn other motorists of the danger. While Deng was stepping out of his patrol car, prosecutors say Bickham allegedly crashed into the vehicles, killing both Deng and Garcia.
California Highway Patrol Southern Division Chief Chris Margaris reported that Bickham was allegedly driving more than 112 mph at the time of the impact. Margaris noted that although the driver attempted to brake seconds before the collision, the speed was too high to avoid hitting the patrol vehicle, the disabled truck, and both victims.
“The aggressiveness of this driving has led to a situation of an absolutely callous disregard for life,” L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said at a press conference.
What is the suspect’s driving history?
Prosecutors have identified a pattern of excessive speeding involving the suspect. The District Attorney’s Office stated that Bickham was cited for driving 105 mph just one month before the fatal crash, though he did not appear in court for that citation.
The prosecution highlighted Bickham’s prior speeding citation as evidence of a pattern of reckless behavior that may support the murder charges.
What are the potential legal consequences?
If convicted of the two felony counts of second-degree murder, Bickham faces up to 15 years to life in state prison for each victim, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell released a statement honoring the fallen officer, noting that Deng was promoted to sergeant in 2023 and served in the West Los Angeles Division. McDonnell described Deng’s 26 1/2 years of service as marked by honor, integrity, and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the victims in this case?
The victims were 53-year-old Shiou Deng and 34-year-old Jesús Garcia.
At what speed was the suspect allegedly driving?
The California Highway Patrol reported the suspect was allegedly driving more than 112 mph.
What specific charges is Mario Joseph Bickham facing?
Bickham has been charged with two felony counts of second-degree murder.
What measures could be taken to prevent high-speed collisions during emergency responses on major freeways?
