HACIENDA HEIGHTS (CNS) - A California Highway Patrol officer was fatallystruck by a vehicle as he directed traffic at the scene of a previous accident on the rain-slick Pomona (60) Freeway in Hacienda Heights early today, authorities said. The fatal crash, reported at 4:20 a.m., happened west of Azusa Avenue, said CHP Officer T. Liu.

Liu said two vehicles collided and one of them then hit the officer, who was airlifted to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers detained the motorists for questioning, Liu said. The officer was identified as Joseph Sanders, 29, who had been with the CHP for 14 months. He left behind a wife and children.

CHP Sgt. Mike Garrett told ABC7 that Sanders was assigned to the Santa Fe Springs office a year ago. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said flags will be flown at half-staff at the state Capitol in honor of Sanders.

'Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Officer Joseph Sanders, who dedicated his life to ensuring public safety,'' Schwarzenegger said in a statement. 'California is a better place because of his service and his sacrifice will not be forgotten.'' Paul M. Weber, president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League --the union representing the departments rank-and-file, said in a statement:

'We know that this news must be devastating to the family, colleagues and friends of Officer Joe Sanders, who put his life on the line so residents could be safe and secure on the highways. Our thoughts and prayers are with his CHP community, as well as his family and friends in what must be a very difficult holiday season.''