LA MESA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The city of La Mesa held a tree lighting ceremony to honor Officer Lauren Craven, who was killed in the line of duty by an alleged drunk driver.

The event, attended by community members, city officials and police officers, marked the beginning of the holiday season in La Mesa, but carried a somber tone as it was the first without Officer Craven. A blue star was lit on the tree to commemorate her service and sacrifice.

"She saved lives that night," said Ray Sweeney, La Mesa Chief of Police, referring to Officer Craven's actions on the night she was killed. "She stepped up and she did what our police officers are expected to do, and we run towards the danger and not away."

Officer Craven was killed on Oct. 20 while assisting crash victims on the I-8 when sh

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