Authorities are investigating whether deputies shared graphic photos of the helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and seven others.
The Los Angeles Times reports that a public safety source with knowledge of the events had seen one of the photos on the phone of another official in a setting that was not related to the investigation of the crash.
The source spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the allegations. The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department said in a statement Friday it was investigating the allegations.
"The Sheriff’s Department is aware of recent media reports alleging deputies shared images from the January 26th, 2020 helicopter crash, which tragically claimed the lives of nine people. The facts surrounding these allegations are currently under investigation, as are the effectiveness of existing policies and procedures. The Sheriff is deeply disturbed at the thought deputies could allegedly engage in such an insensitive act. A thorough investigation will be conducted by the Department, with the number one priority of protecting the dignity and privacy of the victims and their families."
