With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) announces the devastating loss of three of our own—dedicated public servants who gave their lives in the line of duty. Deputy Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Deputy Victor Lemus, and Deputy William Osborn, all assigned to the Special Enforcement Bureau’s Arson Explosives Detail, tragically passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, integrity, and service that will never be forgotten.
Their loss is being mourned not only within the ranks of LASD but across the entire county and law enforcement community. These three heroes stood on the front lines, tackling some of the most dangerous and complex cases imaginable. Their sacrifice is immeasurable, and their memory will forever be etched into the heart of the Department they so faithfully served.
“There are no words to express the pain and sorrow we feel,” said Sheriff Robert Luna. “These heroes represented the best of our Department, exemplifying courage, integrity, and selfless service. This is not only a heartbreaking loss for their families but for all of us.”
Detective Joshua Kelley-Eklund
Service Years: 2006 – 2025
Detective Joshua Kelley-Eklund began his journey with the LASD in March 2006, graduating from Academy Class 348. His early assignments included Pitchess Detention Center North and North County Correctional Facility, where he quickly proved himself a reliable and focused deputy.
In 2010, he transferred to Lennox Station and later became a Field Training Officer at South Los Angeles Station, where he trained and mentored many new deputies. Colleagues consistently described him as professional, articulate, and an exceptional example of what law enforcement should be.
In 2016, he was promoted to Detective at the Narcotics Bureau, working with the LA Impact Team on complex criminal investigations, large-scale narcotics seizures, and the apprehension of dangerous suspects. His commitment to precision and safety led him to join the Special Enforcement Bureau in 2022 as an Arson and Explosives Investigator, where he received bomb technician certifications and became a key member of the team.
Detective Kelley-Eklund is survived by his loving wife, Jessica Eklund, and their seven children. He was not only a trusted partner and colleague but a deeply committed family man whose life centered around the well-being of his children and spouse. His absence leaves an indescribable void.
Detective Victor Lemus
Service Years: 2003 – 2025
Detective Victor Lemus joined the Department as a Security Assistant on July 1, 2003, before completing the Deputy Sheriff Academy with Class 339. His first assignment was at Twin Towers Correctional Facility, where he became an active member of the LASD Baker to Vegas running team, known for his strength and endurance.
He later transferred to Century Station, serving as a Senior Training Officer and Detective, and earning high praise for his tactical skill and mentorship. Detective Lemus joined the Special Enforcement Bureau in 2017, initially serving as a K-9 Handler before transitioning to the Arson and Explosives Detail in 2024. His reputation as a leader and motivator earned him commendations for numerous high-risk arrests and training excellence.
Detective Lemus is survived by his wife, Detective Nancy Lemus (also of LASD), and their three daughters. His legacy also lives on through his extended family within the Department, including his three sisters: Sergeant Belen Lemus, Deputy Perla Lemus, and Custody Assistant Wendy Lemus, along with his brothers and brother-in-law, Sergeant Robert Catalan. His life was interwoven with service, love, and an unyielding dedication to family and justice.
Detective William Osborn
Service Years: 1992 – 2025
Detective William Osborn began his service in February 1992, graduating from Academy Class 278. He began his career at Men’s Central Jail, later transferring to Pico Rivera Station in 1998 and then to Industry Station in 2001, where he was promoted to Detective and became known for his expertise in stolen vehicle recovery.
For more than a decade, he diligently investigated hundreds of cases annually, becoming a respected and seasoned detective. In 2016, he brought his knowledge to the Training Bureau, working as an Emergency Vehicle Operations Center Instructor. Still drawn to field investigations, he returned to detective work in 2019 with the Special Enforcement Bureau.
Detective Osborn worked on high-loss fire investigations, including those involving tragic fatalities. He was a peer leader, often relied upon by his colleagues for his insight, depth of experience, and mentorship. Known as a tenured bomb technician, he was someone others turned to in high-stress, high-risk situations.
He leaves behind a legacy of selfless service, high standards, and unwavering professionalism.
A Department United in Grief
The loss of Detectives Kelley-Eklund, Lemus, and Osborn is felt deeply throughout the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Their absence leaves not only operational gaps but also personal voids in the lives of their families, friends, and the deputies they inspired. These men were more than their titles — they were mentors, fathers, husbands, brothers, and heroes.
In the coming days, the Department will announce memorial services to honor these deputies and offer the community the opportunity to mourn collectively. The LASD is also providing peer support services and chaplain assistance to grieving colleagues and families.
The families have requested privacy and compassion as they navigate this heartbreaking time. The Department pledges its unwavering support and stands united in honoring the fallen.
A Final Salute
Detectives Kelley-Eklund, Lemus, and Osborn will be remembered not only for the bravery they showed in the face of danger but for the lives they led in quiet service and enduring honor. They represent the very best of what it means to serve, protect, and uphold the values of justice and integrity.
May we never forget their sacrifice.
May we forever carry their legacy forward.
Rest in peace, brave warriors. You will never be forgotten.
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